Dettol, the trusted household name in disinfectant from Reckitt Benckiser, has extended its support to Rikta Akter Banu–Lutfa Buddhi Protibondhi Biddaloy, a one-of-a-kind school in the remote village of Ramna Sarkarpara, Kurigram, dedicated to children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The school was founded in 2009 by Rikta Akter Banu, a senior staff nurse and devoted mother.
She established the school after her daughter, who lives with autism and cerebral palsy, was denied admission to a local government school. What began as a personal mission has grown into a vital learning space for children who were otherwise left out of the education system.
Rikta’s tireless efforts recently earned her international recognition, as she was named one of the BBC’s 100 Inspiring and Influential Women of 2024, under the Science, Health and Technology category.
To support her powerful work, Dettol pledged a full year’s supply of hygiene and disinfectant products for the school along with a cash donation BDT 50,000.
The initiative is part of Dettol’s ongoing commitment to building healthier, safer communities through improved hygiene practices.
As part of this campaign, an OVC sharing Rikta’s powerful story was posted on Dettol Bangladesh’s official Facebook page. The video has resonated deeply with audiences across the country, amassing an impressive 48 million views, 3,088 shares, and 890 comments. Click to watch the video about Rikta Akhtar Banu’s inspiring journey https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BEhxo9D6s/
Mohammad Amin-Ul-Bashir Alvi, Brand Manager of Dettol, said, "Dettol believes that every child has the right to grow and learn in a clean and safe environment — regardless of their physical or mental abilities. The strong determination of Rikta Akter Banu and her compassion for children with special needs have truly inspired us. Her journey reminds us that real change often begins with one determined individual."
Salahuddin Ahmed, Senior Marketing Manager of Dettol, said, “Dettol has successfully completed 75 years in Bangladesh. As part of its social responsibility, Dettol is honoring individuals who are making a significant impact in society. The life story of Rikta Akhtar Banu is truly inspiring for our community. Standing beside her initiative means taking a step forward in our shared goal of protecting our children, our society, and our future
This collaboration reflects Reckitt’s broader goal of building a cleaner, healthier world—starting from the grassroots, where the need is greatest and the impact is most profound.
