Barishal hosted the School Banking Conference 2025 on Sunday, organised by Southeast Bank PLC as the lead bank under the supervision of Bangladesh Bank’s Financial Inclusion Department. The event brought together students, teachers and banking professionals to promote financial literacy among young learners.
Bangladesh Bank’s executive director (current charge) for Barishal region, Imtiaz Ahmed Masum, attended as chief guest. The programme featured addresses by Southeast Bank’s managing director (current charge) Abidur Rahman Chowdhury and senior officials from Bangladesh Bank and Barishal education department.
A total of 350 participants attended, including 180 students and 45 teachers from various schools, alongside representatives from all 45 scheduled banks operating in Barishal district. Student speakers Rabia Kamal from Jahanara Israil School and College and Md Hasnain Bin Kabir from Barishal Zilla School shared their banking experiences.
“The conference aims to cultivate savings habits and financial responsibility from an early age,” said Mohammad Rashedul Amin, deputy managing director of Southeast Bank, who chaired the event. Officials emphasised the importance of exposing students to digital banking solutions through school banking programmes.
The day-long event included educational video presentations, a colourful rally, cultural performances and an engaging quiz competition for students. Bangladesh Bank officials highlighted how school banking initiatives help bridge financial inclusion gaps while preparing the next generation for digital finance.
As the designated lead bank for the region, Southeast Bank coordinated participation from all scheduled banks in Barishal. The conference represents part of Bangladesh Bank’s nationwide financial literacy campaign targeting young savers.