Frank discussions on extremism needed

With the aim to raise awareness against violent extremism, the first ever National Youth Peace Assembly 2019 was held at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in the capital yesterday.  

Alokito Shishu, a voluntary organisation working for underprivileged children, in association with Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) arranged the assembly where some 200 youths from different parts of the country participated.

Speaking at the event, media personality Shampa Reza said various turmoils in the society are on the rise as youths in recent times are engaging in misguided and antisocial activities.

She urged youngsters to develop a healthy reading habit and engage in sports for better mental health.

In his speech, Mithun Das Kabbo, founder and CEO of Alokito Shishu, said there are many issues in the society, including extremism, that have remained beyond discussion or have been avoided.  

“But society now faces these perils and youths are deviating from the right track because of these issues,” he said.

He opined this assembly would contribute to better understanding the role of education in preventing violent extremism and encouraging harmony among youths. The root causes behind such violence should be identified first to initiate a path to preventing extremism.

“We don’t want violence and degeneration of values any more; we want peace and harmony,” he added.

He said his organisation has been working since last year in the capital and nearby districts to extemporise a social movement against violent extremism.

 Among others, noted photographer Prito Reza, online-based educational platform 10 Minute School’s instructor Sakib Bin Rashid, and MJF Programme Director Shahriar Mannan spoke at the assembly, which concluded with a cultural programme.