From Hills to Hope:
A School Transforms Kalapani

Once a remote village without access to basic education, Kalapani is now home to a thriving school that is changing futures.

Nestled in the hilly terrains of Guimara upazila in Khagrachari, the village of Kalapani—home to over 200 households from the Marma ethnic community—had no formal school within a 3-kilometer radius. Until 2020, education remained an unreachable dream for its children. Many grew up without the opportunity to read, write, or imagine a different future.

That began to change in 2021 when Mong Sano Marma, a Bangladeshi resident in the USA, laid the foundation of Kalapani Non-government Primary School (KNGPS) on 30 decimals of land generously donated by local villagers. Starting with just 15 students in Grade 1, the school launched its educational journey with the vital partnership and funding support from Agami Inc.

From the beginning, KNGPS provided free education, removing financial barriers for families and ensuring inclusivity. Agami Inc.’s holistic support has been instrumental—providing everything from school uniforms and nutritious midday meals to essential learning materials, competitive teacher salaries, and need-based training. This comprehensive approach created a safe, student-friendly learning environment that encouraged attendance, improved learning outcomes, and elevated the school’s standing in the community.

Today, KNGPS serves over 110 students annually, with more than 30 students completing their primary education so far. Among them, five students earned full scholarships to attend the prestigious Moanoghar Residential School, while others have enrolled in local secondary institutions, continuing their educational journeys.

With over 95% of students promoted to the next grade each year, the school has quickly earned a reputation for academic excellence, inclusion, and community trust. Building on this momentum, the school plans to add one new grade each year with the goal of evolving into a junior high school, creating even more opportunities for the children of Kalapani.

The transformation of KNGPS stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when community commitment meets meaningful partnerships. The founders, teachers, families, and students of Kalapani remain deeply grateful to Agami and its supporters for turning the dream of accessible, quality education into a lasting reality.

- Nayim Uddin