CSR
CSR
We started our contributions with Dr. Anwar Ali Primary School in August 2012 which was established in 1981 at Dhakkhin Khan, Dhirasram, Gazipur Sadar, Gazipur. This Government funded co-ed school provides schooling from Kinder-garden to Class 5. The school is located on 1 acre of land and includes two one storied buildings with 5 classrooms each. Presently there are 254 students attending from grades (preschool to class 5) in two shifts. At this moment, the teaching staff comprises of 6 teachers. Including, a female para-teacher for the Kinder-garden section.
The qualities of existing teachers have been developed through government funded training for public school teachers. The quantity of teachers initially were three, making the school understaffed and insufficient in numbers. It has increased from currently six after Mark LTD, began providing support. In particular importance to us was the inclusion of a full time computer (ICT) teacher for the children. The quality and availability of ICT education for children was very limited. The number of computers and teaching staff specializing in ICT were non existent. We foresee a future where technological fluency is essential in Bangladesh for jobs, education, communication etc. Therefore, the necessary actions to provide computers (4) for the children along with a teacher to educate them in technology were implemented. As so, children that grow up in rural areas are still able to adapt smoothly to the forthcoming digital era in their future. Being in close proximity to the capital city, this school can be upgraded and quality education is provided thus developing a strong foundation for the students as well as the community.
In this circumstance, we contacted the School Management Committee (SMC) and upon their requests we have taken into consideration. Based on their recommended urgency, various initiatives. Consisting of, development of the landscape/playground and fencing the school property, renovating the school building along with all wirings and paint, build separate toilets for girls and boys, ensure supply of safe drinking water, refurbish and provide furniture, etc. Sports equipments were also provided as part of the children’s extracurricular activities
The following breakdown illustrates the contributions made by us to Dr. Anwar Ali Primary School:
*Note: Includes salaries of Consultants, Teachers, Cleaners & Security
To keep the school premises clean and hygienic, two cleaners were hired. Due to being in a rural area, the school struggled to gather funds. Leading, to a lack of cleanliness and hygiene. Resulting in a negative environment for children to be educated. Therefore, cleaners were hired in order to maintain the schools standard of cleanliness. A night guard has been hired as well. Monthly remuneration of these individuals are borne by us, together with added salaries for the teachers including bonuses. The school also lacked borders, making it very risky for the children to play. Fences were added in order for the students to have a safe environment for recreational activities.
Extra/ increased salaries are being provided for teachers, a source of sustainable income for them to work fulltime instead of part time as it was initially. We have also provided, dresses/ shirts for the teachers as initial funds provided to them was unable to cover this necessity. Every 3 months, new stationaries and exercise books are provided to all students. As of 2022, students were also provided shoes. A sitting area developed for the parents that previously had to stand in the heat. Class room benches and tables were fixed by our contracted carpenter as well. Plaster issues within the building were addressed and covered. The electric line was fixed. We took it upon ourselves to address it as well as cover the electricity bill for the school. Due to the close proximity between Mark Wear and Dr. Anwar Ali Primary School. Our on-sight electrician can be there in a moments notice if an issue occurs. Toilets have increased from one to six. Including Two for staff, one for boys, two more for girls and finally one for guests. During the Covid-19, pandemic, hand sanitizer stations were added and are being maintained to this day. Clean drinking water facilities have been ensured to the school. The school is also painted annually.
Overall, the local community is quite content with all the initiatives and developments within the school, but we feel there is still more to be done. We continue to develop and add more facilities to the school in due time to fulfil the our commitment. Assistance that we Mark LTD. hope not only aids students but the community as well.
We believe it is our responsibility to develop and maintain our communities and come forward for its betterment, whether it is this school or any other. As we are based next door, we would be able to directly address any issues whenever an instance arises. This school is also an added benefit for our workers. Their children attend school while they are working, this type of convenience is a rarity in this industry.
Our goal is to set a high standard for this school in this locality and hope it stands as the benchmark for other schools to follow.
Other CSR projects
Assistance for Blind Children or (ABC) founded in 1978. Is a charity focused on aiding visually impaired children. ABC focuses on issues such as creating an inclusive society for these children, providing eye treatments as well as running hostels. Mark LTD. & ABC have been beneficiary associates since 2003. For us it is of upmost importance to support charities that actively strive towards making a positive impact for impaired societies