Brac-Kumon initiative for child edu launched

Brac is introducing Kumon, a unique method to cultivate and develop children's learning potential.

The programme titled "Brac-Kumon" was formally launched yesterday at Brac Centre in the capital, says a press release.

Japanese mathematics teacher Toru Kumon developed this comprehensive method of learning mathematics and formally introduced the method in his country in 1958. Originally named after its developer and initiator, Kumon method is being introduced in Bangladesh as a Brac-Kumon initiative.

The first Brac-Kumon centre is going to start its operation today in the capital's Dhanmondi followed by the second centre at Uttara in October. The centres will be run under a 27-month pilot project of Brac-Kumon that started in July this year.

The next phase, spanning from 2019 to 2021, will gradually open 20 more centres in the country's different cities including Dhaka. Apart from mathematics, English will also be introduced gradually as a subject of learning in these centres, adds the release.

Hidenori Ikegami, president, Kumon Institute of Education Co Ltd, Japan, attended the launching ceremony as the chief guest, while Dr Muhammad Musa, executive director, Brac was present as the special guest.

Hidenori Ikegami said, “Students cannot utilise their potentials owing to two main reasons -- a lack of learning-friendly environment and lack of proper learning method. The Brac-Kumon partnership will be able to ensure both the needs.”

Dr Safiqul Islam, director, Brac Education Programme (BEP); Hitoishi Ara, senior representative, Japan International Cooperation (Jica); Diasuke Arai, country representative, Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO); Nehal Bin Hasan, project in-charge, Brac-Kumon; marketing and communication manager Obaid Rahman, and human resource and admin manager Aneek Bhuiyan spoke at the event.

Brac in 2014 ran the pre-pilot project on Kumon method. The method is currently being run in 50 countries.