During our time at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), there was a young boy who worked as a canteen assistant at Nazrul Islam/ Ahsanullah Hall Canteen. His name was Jamir, aged only 12 or 13 at the time.

Jamir was polite, well-mannered, and because of his gentle behavior, he was loved by almost everyone who knew him. To many of us, he was someone we could trust completely. He was fun loving and never hesitated to follow our small requests or share with us little stories of his village, his family etc.

When I left BUET, I didn’t get the chance to say a proper goodbye. But Jamir kept in touch with my friends and would occasionally enquire about me. Then after nearly 20 years, I finally met him again about two years ago during a visit to BUET. He was no longer the little boy from the canteen — he had grown into a smart young man, got married, had children, and was working at the BUET Staff Canteen. Unfortunately, that meeting was brief, and we didn’t have much time to talk.

Last week, Jamir managed to get my phone number from a friend and sent me a message. What he shared was heartbreaking.

For quite some time, he has been seriously ill. One of his kidneys had to be removed, and the other is now in critical condition. He requires regular medical check-ups and ongoing treatment. Financially, that is an immense struggle for him.

Previously, with the generous support of several BUET community members, around 500,000 BDT was raised to cover part of his treatment and surgery. But he now needs further medical care, and the expenses continue to mount. He has been forced to leave his job at the staff canteen due to his health condition. His wife is trying to support the family through small, informal jobs, but with three young children, they are in a desperate situation.

Jamir has reached out to me, requesting whatever help we can provide for his continued treatment. Naz and I have already contributed what we could. However, much more is needed to ensure he receives proper medical care.

Today, I am reaching out to all friends, well-wishers, and members of our community with a heartfelt appeal:

No contribution is too small. If we each give a little, together we can make a life-saving difference for Jamir and his family during this incredibly difficult time.

This fundraising page has been created with the hope that, if we all come forward, we can raise the required amount within the blessed month of Ramadan.

For the time being, I am using my own bank details to collect the funds so that we can gather the full amount efficiently. However, anyone who prefers to provide direct support may contribute directly to Jamir’s wife’s bank account in Bangladesh.

Let us stand beside this vulnerable family with compassion and humanity. Your support can help save a life and give three children their father back.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.