30/08/2026
Barishal came alive with the energy of young people from diverse backgrounds as the Swadhinata Bootcamp created a space to learn, question, verify and connect.
Held on 19 August and organised by the Association of Voluntary Actions for Society (AVAS), the bootcamp brought together participants from diverse backgrounds, identities and perspectives for a day of practical learning on freedom of expression, misinformation, disinformation, fact-checking, digital safety and online harm.
Through group work, interactive exercises and hands-on activities, participants explored how false or manipulated information spreads, how to verify content before sharing, how to protect themselves in digital spaces, and how to respond when they or others experience online harm. The diversity of participants made the discussions richer, allowing young people to share their own experiences and understand how digital risks can affect women, youth and marginalised communities in different ways.
The programme was joined by Meherun Nahar Munni, Deputy Director, Department of Women Affairs, Barishal, and ASI Ruma Parvin, Women and Children Desk, Barishal Model Police Station. Their participation brought an important institutional perspective to conversations around safety, available support services and the importance of connecting young people with appropriate response mechanisms when they face harassment or other forms of harm.
Learning also went beyond the formal sessions. A cultural programme gave participants an opportunity to express themselves creatively, strengthen connections with one another and celebrate the spirit of youth participation and inclusion.
At the heart of the bootcamp was a simple message: safer digital spaces are possible when young people have the knowledge, confidence and support to question information, verify before sharing, speak up responsibly and help others do the same.
The Barishal Bootcamp was organised under Swadhinata: Freedom of Expression for Digital Democracy (FREEDOM), a project funded by the European Union, led by Plan International Bangladesh and implemented by Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF).
