‘Jibon’ saving lives
Jibon is a non-profit organisation based in Rangamati, which provides blood to the needy, free of cost. It was established in November 2011 as a Blood Donor Association, and gained the trust of the Chittagong Hill Tract (CHT) localities swiftly.
Sazid Bin Zahid, with six of his friends from Rangamati Govt High School, started the organisation when they experienced the lack of proper blood donation and blood management in Rangamati. The Co-founders are Meher Niger, Gayatri Chakraborty, Tasnima Hoque Zarin, Yeah Hakim Pias, Ashfaq Hossain, Sabyasachi Chakma.
Inspired by Anwarul Kabir, the current President of Jibon, the team follows a simple rule: the right blood supply at the right time can save a life. However, finding the right resources in a short time can be a challenge. Recipient of the Joy Bangla Youth Award 2018, Jibon aims to create a safe space for willing blood donors, as well as governmental hospitals, blood banks, and volunteers.
The organisation does not take direct blood donations from people. Rather, it works as a medium. Jibon's team has a list with the blood groups, locations, and phone numbers of willing donors.
Those who need blood urgently, can post on the Facebook Group of Jibon. All posts must mention the health issues, exact blood groups, number of blood bags required, names, addresses, hospital cabin or ward numbers of patients, and relevant contact numbers. Currently, Jibon is operating with over 7,500 willing blood donors.
The organisation also launched workshops and mask distribution programmes in Rangamati to raise awareness about the severity of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Jibon operates widely in the CHT areas. The organisation's team has also expanded their work at Khagrachari, Bandarban, Cumilla, and Dhaka.
Currently, Jibon is working on multiple projects, along with blood donation.
"We are focusing on 'Hello Campus', a campaign that aims to help students through leadership and motivational training, debate sessions, sports, ccultural programmes, and general knowledge competitions. So far, this campaign has covered over 10 educational institutions in Rangamati," says Sazid.
Moreover, 'Skill Drops' is an initiative of Jibon for skill development programmes such as basic computer training, graphic design courses, and handicraft training.
The author is a freelance journalist. Email: [email protected].
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