Every step you run makes a difference

Nestled among the lush green hills of Champajhiri Para in Lama, Bandarban, Pawmang Primary School stands as a beacon of hope for children in remote communities. Founded on February 26, 2011, by a group passionate about the well-being of the hill communities, Pawmang means “flower garden” – a fitting name for a place where children from diverse backgrounds learn, flourish, and build a brighter future together.

More than just an educational institution, Pawmang is a caring home for approximately 120 children from grades one to six. The school welcomes students from various communities, including Mro, Murang, Marma, Khasi, Chakma, and Bengali. Recognizing the challenges faced by children who live far from the school, Pawmang also provides a modest bamboo hostel where they can stay and receive daily meals, making education more accessible to those in need.

For many families in these remote hills, poverty creates significant barriers to education and basic necessities such as nutritious food, clothing, and healthcare. Despite these challenges and limited resources, Pawmang continues to support its students through the kindness and generosity of its supporters.

Deep in the green hills of Changkakpara, Ghazalia Union, in Lama, Bandarban, Pawmum Thrakla stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of community-led education. Established as a formal school in 2016, following earlier educational initiatives, it was born from a shared vision to bring learning opportunities to children in remote indigenous communities, particularly the Mro people. The name “Pawmum Thrakla,” meaning “let the flower bud bloom,” beautifully captures the school’s mission: to nurture every child’s potential and help young minds flourish.

More than a place of learning, Pawmum Thrakla is a living expression of cultural identity and community spirit. Within its welcoming learning environment, children gain foundational knowledge while remaining connected to their language, traditions, and ancestral heritage. By incorporating Mro language learning and celebrating indigenous stories and customs, the school helps preserve a rich cultural legacy while opening pathways to wider educational opportunities. Cultural exchanges, including visits to Dhaka, have also allowed children to share their traditions and experiences with people beyond their hill communities.

Founded through the initiative of Shahriar Parvez, local teacher Uthoyai Marma, and community members, Pawmum Thrakla reflects what can be achieved when people come together with a common purpose. In a region where access to education can be challenging, the school continues to nurture curiosity, confidence, and hope for a brighter future. Like a flower emerging from a bud, each child represents the promise of new beginnings – a future where education empowers young generations to thrive while carrying their cultural roots with pride.