BRAC University鈥檚 school of general education has recently hosted the world premiere of Breaking Barriers, a documentary spotlighting the experiences and challenges of students with disabilities within Bangladesh鈥檚 higher education landscape.
Directed by BRAC University students Umma Maimuna, Atiqur Rahman Priom, Partho Chowdhury, and Tanvir Hasan, executive producer of the film is school of general education faculty Dina Hossain.
Breaking Barriers captures the struggles and resilience of students like Rahim Bhuiyan, a computer science and engineering student, as they navigate educational spaces that are often not designed with accessibility in mind.
Breaking Barriers is part of a broader initiative to empower young filmmakers to promote social justice and civic engagement through impactful storytelling, addressing the critical need for inclusive educational policies by showcasing the infrastructural and societal challenges that students with disabilities face daily.
BRAC University鈥檚 new campus is prominently featured in the film as a model of accessibility, equipped with features that allow students with disabilities to move independently鈥揳 first among universities in Bangladesh.
By spotlighting these advancements, Breaking Barriers advocates for a comprehensive approach to inclusivity, combining both accessible infrastructure and inclusive policies to support students with disabilities nationwide.
Following the screening, the filmmakers shared insights on their journey, with director Umma Maimuna discussing the logistical and emotional complexities of capturing such personal narratives.
The premiere also featured a panel discussion moderated by Fahmida Rahman, senior lecturer at BRAC University鈥檚 school of general education. Panelists included Jahirul Islam, founder and executive director of Team Inclusion; Md Zahidul Islam, lead of BRAC Disability Inclusion; and David Dowland, registrar of BRAC University.
Samia Haque, dean of the school of general education, concluded the event with remarks reaffirming BRAC University鈥檚 commitment to inclusivity and equitable access in education, said a press release on Sunday.
