Computer literacy along with efficient using of internet has not only eradicated the distressed condition of Ziaul Haque
but also turning him into a successful entrepreneur who contributes a lot to the society at present.
When Ziaul, 36, a physically challenged person, started learning computer operation in 2008, many people insulted him in many ways. Considering his interest to this sector, Huzripara Union Parishad under Paba Upazila
appointed him as an entrepreneur in its Union Digital Centre (UDC) in 2011.
He had started operating the UDC with initial investment worth Taka 50,000. Now, the centre has been enriched with eight desktops, two laptops, two photocopier machines, two color printers, three laser printers, one scanner, laminating and spiral binding machines each valued at around Taka five lakh.
While talking to media Ziaul Haque said all the machines and instruments were purchased with earning of the centre. Five youths including three girls are working in the centre.
So far, 276 rural youths received computer training from the centre and they were given certificates from technical education board. Many of them got jobs.
Deputy Commissioner of Rajshahi SM Abdul Kader said Ziaul has been playing pioneering role in the field of E-commerce.
He becomes a successful freelancer earning more than Taka 80,000 to 90,000 per month on an average through providing ICT-based services to the people at present. In terms of his earning, he retains the top position in the division
comprising eight districts. Abdur Rahman made himself another example by using digitization process
and has now become an icon in the field of freelancing and outsourcing by dint of his regular foreign currency earning worth around Taka 40,000 to 45,000 per month at present.
With his own earning, he has established an IT farm enriched with 30 computers and necessary accessories generating around 300 successful entrepreneurs. His capital now stands at Taka14.40 lakh.
Rahman got chance of taking a two-month long training on digital marketing last year. Learning and Earning Development Project (LEDP) under the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) division arranged the course.
Rahman said: “For the first time, I had got a two dollar work order for search engine optimization”. So far, he has earned around 4,500 dollar. The training together with the first work order was his life’s turning point, he added.
Like Abdur Rahman and Ziaul Haque, at least 2,000 youths are involved in freelancing and became regular foreign currency earners through various digital works.
Nur-Ur-Rahman, Commissioner of Rajshahi division, said more than 1,300 entrepreneurs including 650 females are working in 563 UDCs and 91 PDCs in the division and their monthly earning are Taka 7,641 on an average and number of service-recipients is 248.
In order to boosting students’ empowerment through internet, 437 Sheikh Russel Digital Laboratories were established.
