T. N. Al Nashekh, a 2nd-year student at the University of Dhaka and a participant in the DFTP summer course 2023, launched a Human Rights Art Competition and Exhibition in April 2024, completing it in May 2024.
Human rights violations are a significant concern in Bangladesh, with daily reports highlighting issues such as political violence, repression by law enforcement, radicalization, and harassment of women. University campuses are also affected, with incidents of intolerance, ragging, and clashes violating students’ rights. This project aimed to address these issues by providing university students with a platform to creatively express their perspectives on human rights, thereby raising awareness and fostering dialogue within the university community.
Nashekh organized an art competition and exhibition, inviting students to submit artworks that reflect on various human rights issues. The competition received 11 submissions, and the exhibition attracted 204 visitors. Additionally, the project’s Facebook post reached 756 people, further spreading awareness.
The project was a resounding success. The artworks provided powerful visual representations of human rights issues, sparking conversations among the university community. The exhibition not only showcased the students’ talents but also highlighted the importance of human rights and the need to address ongoing violations.
Nashekh’s project had a meaningful impact by raising awareness about human rights issues and encouraging students to engage in dialogue. The exhibition fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility, inspiring participants and visitors to become more active advocates for human rights. Through this creative initiative, Nashekh successfully brought attention to critical issues and promoted a culture of awareness and activism within the university.