By Ro Maung Shwe. Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
On 5 December 2025, a modest gathering of students, teachers, and community members inside the Rohingya refugee camps carried a significance far beyond its size. In observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, the Rohingya Human Rights Network organized an Arts and Essay Writing Competition, placing Rohingya youth at the center of expression, reflection, and dignity.
The initiative was part of RHRN’s broader effort to empower refugee youth and connect the Rohingya community with global movements for justice and awareness. At a time when opportunities for formal expression remain scarce, the competition offered something rare inside the camps: a structured space for young people to think, create, and speak.
Creating Space for Learning and Expression
The competition focused on students from community led high schools, where Rohingya children continue to pursue structured, curriculum based education despite systemic barriers. Through an open announcement on RHRN’s official Facebook page, community schools were invited to nominate students and participate in the initiative.
Fifteen community led high schools took part. More than 50 students were selected and divided into two categories, essay writing and arts drawing. For many participants, this was their first opportunity to have their ideas assessed beyond the classroom, and to be recognized publicly for their intellectual and creative efforts.
Ensuring Fairness and Integrity
To ensure transparency and credibility, respected educators, journalists, and cultural figures from within the community served as observers and invigilators. Their presence helped build trust among students and schools, reinforcing the idea that merit, not influence, would determine the outcome.
The invigilation team was led by Saya Yar Tin, a member of the Management Committee of the Examination Board of Rohingya Refugees, who served as chief invigilator. He was supported by Ansar, a material developer at BRAC, Nur Kamal, a community teacher, Ahtaram Shin, editor at Rohingyatographer and an independent journalist, Enayet Khan, founder and executive director of the Rohingya Art Club, and Abdu Rahman, founder of the Easy English Center, who attended as a program observer.
Their collective involvement ensured a fair and organized assessment process, giving students confidence that their work would be judged solely on quality and effort.
Recognizing Young Talent
In the essay writing category, Mohammed Idiris of Ideal Private High School secured first place, followed by Mohammed Ayas of New Moon High School and Mohammed Salim of Life Destination High School. Finalist positions were awarded to Aitis Khatun from New Moon High School, Jesmin Akter from Bright Life High School, and Aziza from Life Destination High School.
In the arts category, Mohammed Zubair of Bright Life High School won first place. Mohammed Osman of Ideal Private High School secured second place, while Mohammed Shaker of Bright Life High School came third. Kehena Akter from New Moon High School and Mustakima from Life Light High School were recognized as finalists.
A Celebration of Achievement
The awarding ceremony took place on 12 December 2025, bringing together students, teachers, community leaders, activists, and religious scholars. The atmosphere was one of pride and quiet celebration as winners and finalists received their awards, many for the first time in their lives.
Guest speakers used the occasion to reflect on the importance of education, youth empowerment, and community development. They stressed that creative initiatives like this competition help young refugees build confidence, develop critical thinking, and communicate their experiences to the wider world.
Centering Women’s Rights and Dignity
A significant portion of the speeches focused on women’s rights and gender equality. Speakers reminded the audience that women are central to the strength and future of the Rohingya community and deserve dignity, respect, and equal opportunities. They encouraged girls to participate actively in education, leadership, and community initiatives, emphasizing that women’s voices are essential to a just and resilient society.
Female students were urged not to limit their ambitions, and families were encouraged to support girls in learning and public engagement, particularly in a context where displacement often narrows opportunities for women.
Looking Forward
The Arts and Essay Writing Competition organized by the Rohingya Human Rights Network stands as more than a one day event. It reflects a growing recognition within the community that education and expression are forms of resistance against erasure.
By creating platforms where young people can think freely and speak openly, the Rohingya community continues to nurture a generation shaped not only by loss, but also by creativity, confidence, and hope. As the competition’s message echoed through the camp, it carried a belief shared by many parents and educators: a generation empowered with education and voice can reshape the Rohingya future.
