BRAC has launched three new Experiential Learning Boats to help children learn through hands-on activities and technology-based experiences. Focusing on the environment, digital technology, and history, the new additions bring the total number of BRAC's learning boats to six.
The boats were inaugurated on Tuesday at the Kadam Rasul Dargah grounds in Narayanganj by BRAC Executive Director Asif Saleh.
The initiative aims to provide children, particularly those living in remote riverine and haor areas, with opportunities to learn through practical experiences. While the boats are primarily designed for primary school students, people of all ages are welcome to visit and participate in the activities.
Speaking at the inauguration, Asif Saleh said memorisation-based learning may help students pass examinations, but it does not equip them to solve real-life problems.
"Bangladesh faces many challenges, and we need more problem-solvers. Children must learn how to use science and technology and apply their knowledge to address future challenges," he said.
He added that the boats are designed to give children first-hand experiences of concepts they would otherwise encounter only in books or through media.
Safi Rahman Khan, director of BRAC's Education, Skills Development and Migration Programme, said the boats help broaden children's imagination and expose them to new ideas and experiences.
Niveen Reza, head of social enterprises at the BRAC Education Programme, said many children in riverine areas are experiencing technologies such as robotics, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and interactive learning tools for the first time through these boats.
The newly launched Environment Boat teaches children about climate change, biodiversity, pollution, waste management, and environmental responsibility. The Digital Boat introduces them to AR, VR, robotics, and digital learning tools, while the History Boat offers activities related to archaeology, storytelling, maps, and Bangladesh's history and heritage.
Among those present at the inauguration were Shibani Sarkar, upazila nirbahi officer of Bandar upazila; Md Abdul Kium Khan, upazila secondary education officer; and Md Azmal Hossen, upazila primary education officer.
BRAC first introduced boat schools in flood-prone areas in 2011 to ensure uninterrupted education for children. Later, as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, several boats were transformed into experiential learning spaces. The first three boats focused on science, mathematics, and values-based education.
According to BRAC, the initiative has so far reached 77 locations across 16 districts, from Bhola to Sunamganj. A total of 79,185 students have participated in learning activities through the boats, while 462 female volunteers have received training.
Each boat typically remains in a community for seven to 10 days and is open daily from 10am to 4pm. Teachers, parents, and local residents are also encouraged to visit and take part in the activities. Special ramps have been installed to ensure accessibility for children and people with disabilities.
BRAC says the Experiential Learning Boats are not only a source of enjoyment for children but also an innovative response to challenges such as climate change, educational inequality, and limited access to quality learning opportunities. The organisation hopes to turn rivers into pathways for learning and opportunity.