Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar

Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar has long attracted considerable public interest. Owing to his active engagement in political life, his career has, over time, been accompanied by a range of allegations, criticisms, and at times, organised misinformation. In such a context, a structured and evidence-based account of his life, work, and public engagements becomes not merely desirable, but necessary.

This biographical account has been prepared on the basis of direct conversations with him and presents a comprehensive overview of his professional, social, and political undertakings. It also addresses prevalent misconceptions and allegations with relevant clarifications. Readers may consult the sections most pertinent to their interests and purposes.

Professional Profile

Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar is a former Chief Information Officer (CIO), entrepreneur, full-time political activist, policy consultant, author, and educator.

Over an extended period, he held senior leadership positions in the field of information technology across domestic, international, and multinational organisations. In 2009, after serving as Chief Information Officer of a mobile telecommunications operator, he chose to step away from corporate life in order to dedicate himself fully to a broader mission centred on social impact and human capital development.

Movement for Skilled Workforce and Entrepreneurial Development

With a clear vision to cultivate a technologically competent workforce, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar became actively involved in social initiatives grounded in technical and vocational education. He played a direct role in founding and leading several social and service-oriented organisations aimed at developing practical skills and entrepreneurial capacity.

As a trainer, speaker, and panellist, he has participated in numerous workshops, conferences, and seminars both at home and abroad. In addition to holding membership in national and international information technology bodies, he has contributed to the establishment of Bangladesh chapters of several global professional organisations.

Beyond his technical engagements, he has consistently contributed to public discourse on information technology, entrepreneurship, and the national consciousness rooted in the Liberation War. Through radio, television, newspapers, blogs, and social media platforms, he has maintained an active presence, offering commentary, analysis, and written contributions across a broad spectrum of media.

Early Life and Family Background

Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar was born in the village of Bashgram, under Bagulat Union in Kumarkhali Upazila of Kushtia District. He was raised in a politically conscious and civically engaged family environment, where public affairs and social responsibility formed part of everyday discourse.

His father, Mohammad Abubakar (popularly known as Pintu), and his mother, Meherunnesa, both hailed from Bashgram. His paternal grandfather was Sufi Mohammad Ainuddin, and his maternal grandfather was Alhaj Mokaddes Hossain—familial lineages rooted deeply in the same locality.

In 1982, his father fell victim to political violence and was tragically killed. The loss marked a defining moment in the family’s history. In the face of profound adversity, his mother, Meherunnesa, assumed leadership of the household with remarkable fortitude and resolve. Through resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment, she ensured the education and social establishment of her six children under circumstances that were far from favourable.

The formative experience of growing up amidst hardship, responsibility, and political turbulence profoundly shaped Sufi Faruq’s character. It instilled in him a deep sense of duty, perseverance, and social consciousness—traits that would later become central to both his professional trajectory and public life.

Student Years: Education and the Genesis of a Career

In most cases, individuals complete their formal education before entering professional life. Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar, however, diverged markedly from this conventional trajectory. From an early age, his academic pursuits and professional engagements evolved in parallel. Any comprehensive account of his formation must therefore consider not only his education but also the simultaneous emergence of his working life.

In his own words:

“I did not possess either the temperament or the aptitude to remain confined within the traditional academic framework for long. I completed my formal education at my mother’s insistence; yet the education that truly shaped me was acquired through work.”

Primary and Secondary Education

His early instruction began at the family maktab under the guidance of Maulana Mokshed, where he received foundational religious education. Concurrently, he was enrolled at Bashgram Kamil Madrasa, an institution established through family initiative. After studying there until the fifth standard, he was transferred—upon the initiative of his paternal uncle, Kutub Uddin—to Adabaria Primary School.

Following completion of primary education, he entered Bashgram United Multi-purpose Secondary School, another institution founded by members of his family. Alongside his formal schooling, his Islamic instruction at home continued uninterrupted.

During these formative years, he developed a keen interest in reading, recitation, and cultural activities. Under the mentorship of an elder neighbour, Moniruzzaman Mongla, he began to cultivate his cultural sensibilities. His engagement in literary and performing arts flourished, laying the groundwork for a confident public presence.

From the seventh standard onwards, he attended Kushtia Zilla School. It was in the eighth standard that he first encountered a computer—an experience that proved transformative. By the ninth standard, he had developed a pronounced interest in computing and information technology. Encouraged by his brother-in-law, Gazi Mahabub Rahman, he commenced his study of programming.

During this period, he was also actively involved in cultural life. As a member of the organisation Nobin Chetana, he performed leading roles in several stage productions. He continued to participate regularly in college theatre and in various socio-political cultural events, demonstrating a blend of technical curiosity and artistic engagement.

The Beginnings of Entrepreneurship

Even before completing his Secondary School Certificate examinations, he initiated a technology-based venture named Darksoft. After passing from Kushtia Zilla School, he enrolled at Kushtia Government College for his Higher Secondary education.

Whilst still a college student, he co-founded the Kushtia branch of a Dhaka-based computer hardware and components supplier, Tech Land, operating it on a partnership basis. Through this venture, computer systems were supplied to several reputable institutions within the district.

Simultaneously, he pursued self-directed study in computer programming and networking, acquiring advanced technical skills independently. His intense dedication to computing came at the expense of his Higher Secondary examination results, which fell short of expectations. Nevertheless, this immersion in information technology laid the intellectual and practical foundations of his future professional life.

Technical Education and Professional Certification

His intellectual inclination consistently favoured technical and vocational training over conventional academic pathways. Upon completion of his Higher Secondary examinations, he moved to Dhaka and enrolled at the Dhanmondi campus of NIIT, the Indian information technology training institute.

Subsequently, at his mother’s urging, he also enrolled in a general degree programme under the National University, eventually completing a Master’s degree in Computer Applications—thus formally concluding his academic education.

At NIIT, he secured first position in his initial semester with record-breaking marks. Yet, once again, he found himself disenchanted with the rigidity of conventional pedagogical methods. He therefore redirected his energies towards obtaining internationally recognised vendor certifications, successfully earning several such credentials.

During this period, he became associated with Nova Computer, where he provided practical instruction and hands-on training to fellow students—effectively beginning his journey as both practitioner and mentor.

Technology Enterprise and Social Mobilisation

His enterprise, Darksoft, subsequently established an office in Dhaka. Two of his NIIT contemporaries—Sakur Tamal and Sagar Das—joined the venture as partners, whilst responsibility for the Kushtia operations was entrusted to another associate. For a considerable period, the company provided computer systems, hardware solutions, and networking services across both Kushtia and the capital.

During this phase, he brought together fellow students, technology entrepreneurs, and social organisers to establish a civic initiative in Kushtia entitled Projukti-te Kushtia (“Kushtia in Technology”). The movement sought to raise public awareness regarding the transformative potential of information and communication technology and to encourage young people to orient themselves towards technology-driven careers.

From 1999 onwards, a series of annual “Technology Festivals” were organised over several consecutive years. These events attracted participation from universities, technology firms, and distinguished professionals from across the country. Workshops tailored to entrepreneurs and industry practitioners were also convened. At the time, such initiatives were virtually unprecedented in provincial towns, rendering the endeavour both distinctive and pioneering.

Under his editorial stewardship, a monthly periodical entitled Computer News was published for approximately two years, contributing to the growing discourse on technology and digital infrastructure within the region.

Other Technological Engagements

Concurrently, he joined the family-founded Advanced Welfare Foundation (AWF) as a System Administrator. Within its affiliated institution, the Institute of Science, Trade and Technology (ISTT), he introduced what were then considered highly advanced technological facilities: a modern computer laboratory, centralised IT administration, directory services, and a dedicated institutional email system. At that time, such infrastructure was rare within private educational establishments in Bangladesh.

Simultaneously, he served as a researcher at Ekushey Television and began writing regularly for nationally circulated technology publications, thereby contributing to the broader intellectual discourse surrounding digital transformation.

Upon completing his graduation, he worked—both full-time and part-time—with several private Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh. He came to be recognised as one of the youngest system administrators in the country at the time. Alongside his professional duties, he undertook the training of a cohort of students, preparing them to assume roles as system administrators.

In due course, he relinquished full-time employment to pursue consultancy work independently. He also served as a trainer for various institutions in Dhaka, including BASE IT, further consolidating his role as both practitioner and educator.

ISP Setup Manual

Reflecting upon this period, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar has remarked:

“It was during this time that I took one of the most consequential decisions of my life.”

That decision was to author a comprehensive volume on the establishment and management of Internet Service Providers, entitled ISP Setup Manual.

Having trained a substantial number of students over many years, he had developed an acute understanding of the recurring technical and operational challenges associated with ISP deployment and management. Drawing upon this practical experience and accumulated expertise, he commenced writing the manuscript. The work was completed in early 2004. Thereafter, a dedicated team of students was assembled to rigorously review and validate its technical accuracy.

The first English-language edition was published in mid-2004 in paperback format. It was not merely a technical manual but also distinguished by its refined artistic direction and visual presentation, overseen by his friend Konok Aditya.

The production, however, entailed significant expense. At the time, publishing a technical book of such quality and scope in Bangladesh was widely regarded as commercially risky, if not imprudent. No publisher was willing to undertake the project at the proposed standard. Unwilling to compromise on quality, he ultimately proceeded to publish the book through his own firm, Sufi & Associates.

The publication process was supported by several well-wishers and professional associates, including his mentor in the ISP domain, Suman Ahmed Sabir, and his senior associate Abul Kalam Azad, among others who recognised the work’s potential impact.

Upon release, the book received an overwhelmingly positive response. The entire first print run sold out within a single week. At that time, not only in Bangladesh but across South Asia, there existed no comparable volume offering such a comprehensive and technically integrated treatment of ISP deployment and management.

Through networks of engineers and technology professionals, the book soon gained recognition beyond national borders. A distributor was appointed in India, and subsequent editions were financed through advance market orders. Within two years, the book went through eleven printings—despite instances of unauthorised reproduction and piracy.

He later observed:

“The revenue generated by this book exceeded my original expectations by nearly forty-two times.”

In a further demonstration of his commitment to knowledge dissemination, he eventually made the work openly reproducible. Following this decision, others reprinted and distributed the volume without obligation of royalty, a concession he accepted in the interest of broader access to technical knowledge.

Full-Time Appointment at a Multinational Telecommunications Company

Following the publication of ISP Setup Manual, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar had personally resolved not to return to conventional employment. Yet events unfolded otherwise. Through one of his former students, a copy of the book came into the hands of a senior executive at Telekom Malaysia.

At the time, Telekom Malaysia was seeking senior-level information technology leadership for its operations in Bangladesh. Impressed by the depth, clarity, and technical rigour of the book, the company invited him to attend an interview. Upon meeting him, the interview panel reportedly expressed surprise at his youth and, at one point, asked directly whether the book had indeed been authored by him.

Following the interview, he was offered the position of Senior Manager, accompanied by what was, at the time, an unexpectedly generous remuneration package. Within two years of joining, he was promoted to the role of Chief Information Officer (Head of IT).

He assumed leadership of the Information Technology division during a period of rapid growth for Telekom Malaysia’s Bangladesh operations. Under his stewardship, a number of strategic initiatives were implemented, including:

• The introduction of a centralised IT governance and management framework
• Expansion of IP network infrastructure
• Implementation of SAP ERP systems
• Modernisation of enterprise IT infrastructure
• Introduction of new operational and managerial models

His contributions extended beyond infrastructure and systems. He has often regarded the cultivation of capable technology leaders as one of his most significant achievements. Several professionals who developed under his supervision have since gone on to occupy senior leadership positions within various technology organisations.

South Asian Network Operators Group (SANOG)

Prior to assuming his role at Telekom Malaysia Bangladesh, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar had already become associated with the South Asian Network Operators Group (SANOG), a voluntary regional professional body.

SANOG serves as a collaborative platform dedicated to strengthening internet infrastructure, network management expertise, and technical capacity across South Asia. Through his involvement with the organisation, he served as a trainer at conferences and workshops held in Dhaka, Bhutan, and various cities in India.

This engagement enabled him to exchange knowledge and experience with regional technology communities and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of network operations and technical competence within South Asia.

Information Technology Management Association of Bangladesh (ITMAB)

Recognising the need to elevate the discourse surrounding Information Technology Management in Bangladesh, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar initiated the establishment of the Information Technology Management Association of Bangladesh (ITMAB).

The association sought to foster conceptual clarity, promote international best practices, and introduce robust policy standards within the domain of IT management. Its underlying philosophy was that information technology should not be confined to operational maintenance but must be understood as an integral component of strategic and institutional leadership.

Through ITMAB, a range of professional development initiatives were undertaken, including training programmes, seminars, policy discussions, and knowledge-sharing forums. Over time, the platform contributed to strengthening IT leadership and managerial capability across both public and private sectors in Bangladesh.

SnA Consultancy Services

In 2005, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar founded SnA Consultancy Services with the objective of providing specialised IT consultancy and audit services.

The firm’s principal areas of engagement included IT infrastructure planning, project advisory services, risk assessment, and technical audit. It operated across both governmental and private sectors, focusing on enhancing the effectiveness, security, and strategic resilience of information technology initiatives.

Within the private sector, SnA Consultancy Services provided advisory support in areas such as:

• Data centre planning and deployment
• Development of IT security infrastructure
• Formulation of IT governance frameworks
• System evaluation and risk analysis

At the governmental level, the firm conducted audits and evaluations of several critical and sensitive IT infrastructures and systems, with particular emphasis on security, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.

In later years, as part of organisational restructuring and expansion, the firm rebranded and commenced operations under the name Gurukul Consulting, reflecting a broader strategic vision.

Bangladesh Gurukul

From 2007 onwards, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar began, through a process of personal introspection, to recognise that his professional trajectory within the corporate structure had reached something approaching its natural culmination. The position of Chief Information Officer represented the apex of a conventional technological career path. Moreover, within the institutional culture of the time, there existed little precedent for progression from IT leadership into chief executive authority.

More significantly, he felt an increasing conviction that his contribution to society—particularly in the domain of direct human capital development—ought to assume a broader and more transformative dimension.

It was in this context that he undertook the establishment of technical and vocational educational institutions aimed at cultivating a skilled workforce. His vision was to create a model of education rooted in practical, hands-on training, aligned with real-world industry demands. Yet the initiative was never confined to technical competence alone. Equal emphasis was placed upon ethical formation, civic responsibility, and the nurturing of humane values among students.

The name Gurukul was proposed by his wife, drawing inspiration from the ancient residential learning tradition of the Indian subcontinent. From that philosophical foundation emerged a modern educational endeavour shaped by contemporary needs yet informed by classical ideals of mentorship and character formation.

In 2009, the first engineering institution under the Gurukul banner received formal approval, and academic activities commenced in 2010. Since that initial step, the network has expanded steadily. At present, thirteen institutions operate under the Gurukul framework, with a substantial number of students enrolled across various programmes and durations of study.

Graduates of Gurukul have gone on to serve with distinction in numerous organisations across the country. The initiative has thus laid an institutional foundation not only for the development of technology-oriented human resources but also for the formation of conscientious and socially responsible citizens.

Further details regarding Gurukul’s philosophy and activities are available through its official website.

Gurukul Online Learning Network

The rapid evolution of digital technology and the emergence of knowledge-based economies have reshaped educational paradigms worldwide. Recognising this transformation, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar formally launched the Gurukul Online Learning Network in 2016.

The initiative was conceived with a clear objective: to deliver high-quality, accessible, and contextually relevant educational resources through digital platforms to learners from all walks of life. Education, in his view, ought not to remain confined within classroom walls; rather, digital platforms should enable anyone, anywhere, to access structured and reliable knowledge.

Initially, the network focused on producing well-organised and credible online learning materials, made freely available or easily accessible. Gradually, it integrated several of his earlier digital platforms dedicated to arts, culture, national consciousness, and civic discourse. As a result, the network evolved beyond a purely technical or vocational learning portal into a multidimensional digital ecosystem encompassing history, culture, entrepreneurship, policy dialogue, and contemporary affairs.

From 2018 onwards, Gurukul systematically developed video-based educational content. Drawing upon global trends in online learning—particularly video lectures, concise explanatory modules, animated presentations, and visual learning techniques—the model was adapted to local realities. The incorporation of visual and interactive methods enabled learners to move beyond textbook dependency towards a more engaging and accessible learning experience.

Within a relatively short span, the platform gained substantial popularity.

Today, the Gurukul Online Learning Network comprises over a hundred active digital platforms, operating across social media channels, video streaming services, and web-based outlets. Each month, more than ten million viewers and readers engage with its educational and informational content. This expansive audience base has positioned Gurukul as a significant digital knowledge network within the national landscape.

Through this initiative, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar seeks to extend technology-driven human resource development beyond institutional boundaries to a broader national scale.

Current Engagements

Bangladesh Awami League

• Member, Bangladesh Awami League, Kushtia District Branch
• Member, Science and Technology Sub-Committee, Central Committee, Bangladesh Awami League

Gurukul

• Trustee, Gurukul Trust
• Principal Leader, Gurukul
• Chairman, Gurukul Limited
• Chief Executive of twenty-seven privately owned institutions operating under the Gurukul name

Other

• Trustee, Sufi Welfare Foundation
• President, Projukti-te Bangladesh (“Bangladesh in Technology”)

 

 

Previous Engagements

• President, Youth Bangla Cultural Forum
• Secretary for Science and Technology, Bangladesh Awami League, Kushtia District Branch
• Convenor, Information Technology Management Association of Bangladesh
• Trustee, Advanced Welfare Foundation
• Trustee, Kumarkhali Foundation
• Chairman of the Editorial Board, Daily Ajker Alo
• Governing Body Member, Kumarkhali Women’s College
• Governing Body Member, Bashgram Alauddin Ahmed College
• Lecturer, Institute of Science, Trade and Technology
• Chief Executive, Business Innovation and Incubation Centre
• Director, Sufi & Associates Companies

 

Summary of Professional Engagements

Career in Information Technology

1999–2010
During this period, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar served in responsible positions within a range of domestic and international organisations in the field of information technology. His work encompassed network management, infrastructure development, systems administration, and strategic IT governance. He exercised leadership across both operational and managerial domains, contributing to the strengthening of enterprise-level technology frameworks.

2008
At the age of just twenty-eight, he became the first Bangladeshi to assume the role of Chief Information Officer (CIO/Head of IT) at a multinational mobile telecommunications company. This appointment marked a significant milestone within the corporate IT leadership landscape of Bangladesh, symbolising the emergence of locally developed technological leadership at the highest executive tier.

From 2010 to the Present
Through his own established IT consultancy firm, he has been engaged as an advisor on a number of major projects across both governmental and private sectors. His areas of expertise include:

• Content management systems
• Internet service infrastructure
• IT governance and management frameworks
• Cybersecurity and enterprise security architecture
• Project audit and risk assessment

His consultancy work has focused on enhancing institutional efficiency, technological resilience, and strategic digital transformation.

International and Regional Engagement

As a trainer, speaker, and panellist, he has participated in numerous conferences and professional workshops both domestically and internationally. Notable engagements include:

• South Asian Network Operators Group (SANOG) conferences in Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Mumbai, India
• Computer Associates (CA) conference in Goa, India
• Technology conferences hosted by Huawei Technologies in Malaysia, Thailand, and China
• IP-focused workshops organised by Telekom Malaysia and Multimedia University

These engagements have positioned him within broader regional and international technology communities, facilitating cross-border knowledge exchange and professional collaboration.

Research and Writing

He has written extensively on information technology, human resource development, entrepreneurship, and industry-based research. His contributions have appeared regularly in national daily newspapers and various specialised publications, contributing to intellectual discourse in the technology and development sectors.

Authorship

He is the author of the English-language technical volume ISP Setup Manual, widely regarded as a seminal reference work on the establishment and management of Internet Service Providers within South Asia. The book has been recognised for its practical depth, technical clarity, and comprehensive treatment of ISP infrastructure and operations.

Social and Political Engagement

Mobilising Professionals for “Digital Bangladesh”

Following the formation of the Awami League government in 2009, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar undertook a series of initiatives aimed at ensuring the active participation of information technology professionals in the realisation of the national vision of “Digital Bangladesh”.

Under the banner of the Information Technology Management Association of Bangladesh (ITMAB), which he led, efforts were made to motivate, organise, and integrate technology professionals from both public and private sectors into structured policy dialogue and strategic engagement.

Among the notable initiatives were:

• Organising consultative forums between IT professionals and the Minister and senior officials of the Ministry of Information Technology
• Facilitating professional participation in the formulation of national ICT policy
• Conducting complimentary training programmes for government officials on the objectives, strategic framework, and implementation mechanisms of Digital Bangladesh

Through these endeavours, he sought to reinforce the role of professionals in shaping technology-driven policymaking and institutional reform.

“Technology Festivals” in Provincial Towns

In order to extend the concept of Digital Bangladesh beyond the capital and into district and provincial towns, Sufi Faruq’s civic platform, Projukti-te Bangladesh (“Bangladesh in Technology”), organised a series of “Technology Festivals” through district and university chapters.

These festivals brought together:

• IT service providers
• Educational institutions and university students
• Young entrepreneurs presenting innovative technology projects

Distinguished participants included university vice-chancellors, leaders of trade associations, national and international researchers, and senior policymakers.

The festivals served a dual purpose: they provided young innovators with a platform to showcase their capabilities, and they communicated the government’s development agenda and digital transformation initiatives to grassroots communities.

Awareness and Technical Training for Emerging IT Professionals

With the objective of equipping young people with practical technological skills, Sufi Faruq initiated a series of awareness programmes and technical workshops at district, sub-district, and union levels. To date, approximately 5,000 trainees have participated in these initiatives.

More than 600 of those trained have gone on to secure reputable positions in organisations both at home and abroad—an outcome that illustrates the tangible impact of these programmes.

In addition to technical instruction, the workshops addressed broader themes, including government initiatives in the ICT sector, the future trajectory of digital transformation, and emerging employment opportunities. The majority of these activities were conducted under the auspices of Projukti-te Bangladesh.

“Market Outreach” and Courtyard Dialogues

To communicate development initiatives directly to grassroots communities and to foster participatory dialogue, two complementary programmes were introduced: Hat Porikrama (“Market Outreach”) and Uthan Boithok (“Courtyard Dialogues”).

Market Outreach involved trained teams visiting rural markets, where multimedia presentations were used to illustrate government development projects and achievements.

Courtyard Dialogues were organised within village settings, enabling open discussions with local residents. These gatherings combined the presentation of development initiatives with opportunities for public questioning and feedback. Community concerns were noted and, where feasible, followed up.

The overarching aim of these programmes was to render development narratives accessible and comprehensible, whilst strengthening civic and political engagement at the grassroots level.

Rural Information Service Centres

In 2007, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar undertook a personal initiative to make information technology services more accessible in rural areas. Through personal financial sacrifice, he donated a computer, UPS, and printer to the Bagulat Union Parishad in Kumarkhali Upazila, thereby establishing an initial Rural Information Service Centre.

The purpose of this initiative was to connect rural citizens with digital services, access to information, and online facilities. Subsequently, he encouraged emerging local entrepreneurs to establish additional service centres in market areas and population hubs, providing them with essential computer equipment and support.

These centres created opportunities for self-employment among local youth. A significant number of the entrepreneurs involved have since achieved economic self-reliance, contributing positively to the rural economy.

The “Din Bodoler Adda” Initiative

In order to establish direct engagement with young people and to raise awareness regarding public policy and development initiatives, a participatory programme entitled Din Bodoler Adda (“Conversations for a Changing Time”) was introduced.

The initiative takes the form of informal courtyard-style gatherings, convened in village fields, residential courtyards, or local market areas. Young men and women from the locality serve as the principal organisers, while occasional guest speakers from outside the community are invited to contribute. Senior members of the community also participate, ensuring intergenerational dialogue.

Conducted in an unpretentious setting—often accompanied by tea and light refreshments—the discussions centre upon issues affecting the locality. Topics typically include:

• Social challenges
• Youth employment
• Local enterprise and entrepreneurial opportunity
• Education and skills development
• Ongoing development initiatives

Where problems can be addressed locally, practical steps are identified and discussed. Matters requiring external support are documented for subsequent follow-up. On occasion, accomplished individuals or successful entrepreneurs are invited to attend, offering tangible inspiration to younger participants.

Through this initiative, sustained engagement with the younger generation has been strengthened. It has provided a forum for reasoned dialogue, countering misinformation through discussion and fostering a more informed and responsible civic culture.

“Digital Kushtia” Project

With the aim of enriching digital knowledge repositories and presenting local history, heritage, and distinguished personalities to a global audience, the Digital Kushtia project was undertaken.

The initiative involved the systematic collection and publication of digital content relating to prominent figures, historical sites, cultural traditions, and notable landmarks within Kushtia District. More than five hundred dedicated pages and information resources were created and disseminated, contributing significantly to the preservation and promotion of local heritage in digital form.

As a result, information relating to Kushtia has become considerably more accessible online, ensuring broader visibility beyond geographical boundaries.

To cultivate historical awareness among children and adolescents, simplified digital biographies of notable personalities have also been developed. In 2010, a child-friendly digital publication entitled Chhotoder Lalon (“Lalon for Young Readers”) was produced to introduce the life and philosophy of the Baul mystic Lalon Shah to younger audiences. The purpose was to familiarise a new generation with Lalon’s humanistic philosophy and cultural legacy in an accessible manner.

Today, a substantial proportion of online information concerning Kushtia derives from the content generated through this project. Digital Kushtia thus represents not merely a technological undertaking, but a sustained effort to institutionalise the digital documentation and global presentation of local history and culture.

Sheikh Hasina Health Camp

The Sheikh Hasina Health Camp is organised regularly at various locations within Kumarkhali Upazila, with the objective of providing primary healthcare services to marginalised and low-income communities.

On average, each camp serves approximately two hundred patients, offering free medical services that include:

• Basic health examinations
• Medical consultation and prescriptions
• Blood glucose and blood group testing
• Selected routine diagnostic tests
• Provision of essential medicines

In addition to clinical services, participants are advised on how and where to access government healthcare facilities.

This monthly initiative operates under the guiding humanitarian principle that economically disadvantaged individuals should not be deprived of medical care. Financial support is provided by the family-based social organisation, the Sufi Welfare Foundation. Medical services are delivered by volunteer or professionally engaged doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers, with logistical and technical coordination supported by the Gurukul Health Club.

The programme has contributed meaningfully to addressing gaps in primary healthcare access at the local level and to raising public awareness regarding health services.

Technology-Driven Human Capital Development for “Digital Bangladesh”

In pursuit of the Digital Bangladesh vision, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar accorded priority to the development of a technologically skilled workforce. To this end, he undertook a series of initiatives aimed at popularising technical and vocational education.

His philosophy was clear: academic degrees alone were insufficient. Young people needed industry-aligned, practical competencies that would render them immediately employable within a rapidly evolving digital economy. Guided by this conviction, he became directly involved in the establishment and management of several technical education institutions.

Within these institutions, emphasis was placed upon applied, hands-on training designed to ensure that graduates possessed skills relevant to contemporary industrial and technological demands. At present, more than five hundred students annually complete four-year technical programmes under this framework and subsequently enter various sectors of industry and technology.

Collectively, these efforts have contributed to the creation of an institutional model for technology-oriented workforce development—one that supports the broader requirements of a knowledge-based and digitally enabled economy.

Development of Technology-Based Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Recognising that the Digital Bangladesh vision could not be realised without the emergence of technology-driven entrepreneurs, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar became actively engaged, from 2008 onwards, in initiatives aimed at fostering new enterprise.

His engagement extended beyond awareness-building activities. He sought to establish the structural foundations necessary for entrepreneurial growth. Through venture capital and angel investment mechanisms, several promising technology entrepreneurs received financial backing, enabling them to formalise and scale their ventures within sustainable business frameworks.

The objectives of these initiatives included:

• Establishing technology-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
• Generating employment opportunities
• Expanding innovation within the digital economy
• Developing technology-driven solutions to local challenges

 

 

Bangladesh’s First Private Entrepreneurial Incubator

Drawing upon international models of successful entrepreneurial incubation, he undertook research and adaptation to design a contextually appropriate incubation framework for Bangladesh.

Through this privately established incubator, emerging entrepreneurs were provided with comprehensive support, including:

• Seed and early-stage investment
• Business model and business case development
• Market analysis and financial planning
• Infrastructure and workspace facilities
• Team-building and managerial guidance
• Technical training
• Legal and regulatory advisory services

This integrated framework was designed to facilitate the transition from initial idea to sustainable enterprise, offering a structured pathway from concept to commercial viability.

Entrepreneurial Assemblies and Recognition

To encourage and celebrate innovation, regular Entrepreneurial Assemblies and Award Ceremonies were organised. These events sought to recognise young entrepreneurs—particularly those who had advanced despite adversity—and to honour their achievements publicly.

By acknowledging both promise and perseverance, these gatherings served to inspire the next generation, fostering confidence and ambition among aspiring entrepreneurs.

Hackathon Engagement

Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar was also involved in the organisation of internationally benchmarked hackathons aimed at nurturing innovation and technology-based problem-solving among young participants.

In the Bangladesh edition of an international hackathon supported by the World Bank, he served as a principal organiser and mentor. Participants were challenged to develop technology-driven solutions to defined problems within a fixed timeframe—an experience that sharpened analytical thinking, collaborative skills, and entrepreneurial potential.

Such initiatives played a meaningful role in cultivating a culture of innovation and start-up development.

National Entrepreneur Summit (2013)

In 2013, Bangladesh hosted its first National Entrepreneur Summit. Organised under the patronage of the then Finance Minister, Abul Maal Abdul Muhith, and led by Team Engine, the summit marked a significant milestone in the country’s entrepreneurial journey. Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar served as one of the principal organisers.

The summit aimed to:

• Facilitate national-level dialogue on entrepreneurial policy
• Connect investors with emerging entrepreneurs
• Showcase the potential of technology-driven enterprises
• Foster coordination between policymakers, industry stakeholders, and young innovators

The event is widely regarded as a formative moment in the development of Bangladesh’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, signalling a shift towards structured support for innovation-led economic growth.

Career Guidance Forums

In order to equip young people of the Kumarkhali–Khoksa region for careers rooted in science and technology, an initiative titled the Career Guidance Forum was introduced. Its principal objective was to familiarise students with future-oriented professions aligned with the Digital Bangladesh vision and to provide structured direction for meaningful preparation.

These forums explored the expanding opportunities within a knowledge-based economy, including careers in technology, innovation, information technology, engineering, digital services, and entrepreneurship. Particular emphasis was placed upon the competencies required for success in these fields—ranging from academic foundations and technical training to soft skills, personal discipline, and continuous professional development.

Through these engagements, participants were presented with a coherent roadmap towards technology-driven employment, enabling them to approach their future with informed ambition and practical preparedness.

The “Porho Mujib” Educational Initiative

To introduce children and adolescents in district and rural regions to the formative years and life philosophy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, an educational initiative entitled “Porho Mujib” (“Read Mujib”) was launched. Initially introduced in various educational institutions across Kushtia district, the programme subsequently gained nationwide attention through social media engagement. It is now replicated in schools, colleges, and madrasas across numerous districts and sub-districts of the country.

The programme centres upon the graphic novel “Mujib”, inspired by Bangabandhu’s memoir The Unfinished Memoirs. Published by the Centre for Research and Information (CRI) on the occasion of his 95th birth anniversary, under the initiative of his grandson Radwan Mujib Siddiq, this 24-page volume is regarded as one of the country’s earliest biographical graphic publications.

The structure of a typical Porho Mujib session includes:

• A reading of the graphic novel before students, or a projected visual presentation
• A quiz session based upon the content of the book
• Presentation of complimentary copies of the graphic novel to winning participants

The sessions are characterised by the enthusiasm of students and the dedicated involvement of teachers. In most instances, the primary organisational responsibility rests with the host institution’s faculty and students, while logistical support and provision of the graphic novels are ensured by the initiative’s coordinators.

Through this programme, national history has been rendered accessible and engaging to younger audiences, encouraging historical literacy through an appealing visual medium.

Digital Communications and Online Campaign Team

Under the Science and Technology Affairs division of the Kushtia District Awami League, a specialised digital communications team has been formed to conduct structured and strategic outreach across online platforms.

The team has planned a dedicated campaign under the theme “Our Development under the Leadership of Sheikh Hasina” during electoral periods. In addition, it actively participates in the party’s regular digital communication efforts, disseminating information regarding policy initiatives, development achievements, and organisational activities.

This initiative reflects a deliberate effort to utilise social media and digital platforms as effective instruments for organised political communication and public engagement.

Grassroots Dialogue on the Party Manifesto

In his capacity as Science and Technology Secretary of the Kushtia District Awami League, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar undertook the initiative of presenting and explaining the party’s newly adopted manifesto, ratified at the 20th National Council of the Bangladesh Awami League, to grassroots members.

A series of structured consultative meetings were organised at union level, where the manifesto’s core commitments, policy positions, development strategies, and future action plans were discussed in detail with party activists.

The underlying conviction guiding this initiative was that a clear and comprehensive understanding of the party’s manifesto would empower grassroots members to act with greater confidence, clarity, and motivation.

Such dialogues contributed to fostering a more coherent alignment between organisational principles and practical political action at the local level.

Organisational Engagement in the Cultural Sphere

As a cultural activist, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar has served as an organiser of the Youth Bangla Cultural Forum. The platform was conceived to provide patronage and structured support to emerging artists and cultural practitioners, while nurturing within them the spirit of the Liberation War and a value system grounded in the national identity of Bangladesh.

Through performances, cultural programmes, discussions, and creative initiatives, the Forum seeks to cultivate historical awareness and civic consciousness among the younger generation. A number of distinguished cultural figures from across the country have since associated themselves with the platform, strengthening its intellectual and artistic foundations.

The organisation’s official logo was formally unveiled by Saima Wazed, an event that lent symbolic significance and institutional recognition to the Forum’s mission.

Digital Outreach in Support of Leadership and Organisation

Since 2012, Sufi Faruq has pursued a structured and strategic approach to digital communication in support of organisational engagement. Tailored content strategies have been developed for domestic and international audiences across platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social media channels.

Beyond digital media management, he has also been involved in various print publications. On the occasion of a party council, he produced a documentary entitled “Sheikh Hasina in the Assembly of Nations”, highlighting Bangladesh’s leadership and international engagements on the global stage. The documentary attracted approximately a quarter of a million viewers across social media platforms, generating notable engagement and discussion within the digital sphere.

Initiatives to Counter Terrorism and Extremism

Viewing the promotion of social awareness against terrorism and violent extremism as a civic responsibility, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar has undertaken both online and offline initiatives aimed at strengthening public understanding of these issues.

The principal objective of these efforts has been to inform communities about the social, political, and ideological underpinnings of extremism, while cautioning against distorted narratives and manipulative propaganda. Through community discussions, awareness campaigns, and educational content, he has sought to highlight the dangers of religious misinterpretation, radical ideologies, and violence-inciting rhetoric.

By engaging local community leaders and activists, these initiatives aim to reinforce social harmony, tolerance, and responsible citizenship.

Annapurna Bangamata Guest House Initiative

The Annapurna Bangamata Guest House initiative was established to provide humanitarian assistance to low-income individuals, day labourers, and itinerant persons visiting Kumarkhali on market days.

Under this project, a complimentary meal is offered on designated market days at the Kumarkhali railway station area to those in need. The purpose is to extend compassion and basic nutritional support to economically vulnerable and transient members of society.

This modest yet meaningful initiative contributes to strengthening social solidarity and reinforcing values of empathy and community responsibility at the local level.

Local Social and Organisational Engagement

Since 2001, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar has remained actively involved in a range of local development and community-support initiatives. His engagements have included:

• Assistance in the construction and renovation of religious institutions
• Restoration and infrastructural improvement of graveyards
• Financial and institutional support to educational establishments
• Medical assistance for Freedom Fighters
• Employment support for members of Freedom Fighter families
• Medical and educational assistance for financially distressed party workers and their children

In addition, annual winter clothing distributions, pre-festival food assistance, and other humanitarian outreach programmes are conducted regularly. These activities reflect a sustained effort to remain connected to and supportive of marginalised communities.

Education and Professional Qualifications

Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar holds a Master’s degree in Computer Applications. He also completed a Postgraduate Diploma in E-Technology (Network-Centred Computing).

In furtherance of his professional development, he has earned multiple internationally recognised certifications, including:

• Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
• ITIL v3 Certified
• Certified Security Assessor
• Certified Data Center Professional

These qualifications attest to his expertise in information technology management, network infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data centre operations, reinforcing the technical foundations upon which his professional career has been built.

Contact Information

For professional correspondence, public engagement, and organisational communication, Sufi Faruq Ibne Abubakar may be reached through the following channels:

Digital Platforms

• Facebook Profile:
  https://www.facebook.com/sufi.faruq

• Facebook Page:
  https://www.facebook.com/Sufi.Faruq.Ibne.Abubakar

• Twitter (X) Profile:
  https://twitter.com/sufifaruq

• LinkedIn Profile:
  http://www.linkedin.com/in/sufifaruq

• YouTube Channel:
  http://www.youtube.com/sufifaruq

• Personal Website:
  http://www.sufifaruq.com/

 

 

Office Addresses

Dhaka Office:
House 450, Road 31
Mohakhali DOHS
Dhaka 1206, Bangladesh
Telephone: +880-2-9891190, 8836875

Kushtia Office:
5/2 Jeher Ali Biswas Lane
Kalisankarpur
Kushtia, Bangladesh
Telephone: +880 (17) 63038, 63039

Kumarkhali Office:
Kumarkhali Bus Stand
Durgapur
Kumarkhali, Kushtia

Residential Addresses

Dhaka Residence:
Property Enclave
54 New Eskaton
Tejgaon, Dhaka
Telephone: +880-2-9346761

Kushtia Residence:
C-75 Housing Estate
Kushtia–7000
Telephone: +880 (71) 63166

Kumarkhali Residence:
“Annapurna”
Village: Bashgram
Post: Durbachara
Police Station: Kumarkhali
District: Kushtia, Bangladesh