Started in 2012, the Bangladeshi-American Professional & Academic Network (BAPAN) is an online forum for Bangladeshi students, scholars, researchers, and professionals in different universities and industries in the United States. BAPAN wants to create a network among Bangladeshis living and working in various states and cities in the USA. The forum also helps its members get education, work, and life-related information through workshops, seminars, video talks, interviews, websites, etc.
BAPAN Library is a collection of articles and YouTube video interviews of the Bangladeshi expatriate community in the academic and professional fields. The library has three categories:
- BAPAN Talk – Video interview of Bangladeshi academics and professionals in the USA
- BAPAN Presentation – Video presentation on relevant issues helpful to the Bangladeshi community
- BAPAN Article – Written article to inspire young Bangladeshi graduates about their prospects in the USA
Bangladeshi-American Professional & Academic Network members communicate and disseminate information with each other through Facebook groups, Facebook pages, and YouTube channels. The forum also maintains a database of its members on its website.
Bangladeshi-American Professional & Academic Network uses Bangla as its primary language because its target audience is mainland Bangladesh.
Action Plan
BAPAN’s primary objective is to support Bangladeshi students and professionals in their academic and professional endeavors in American universities and beyond. BAPAN has the following action plan to achieve that goal:
- Create a comprehensive database of Bangladeshi individuals residing in the United States.
- Establish an online library of video interviews with successful professionals in various fields.
- Provide comprehensive support to students aspiring to study in the United States, assisting them in preparing for their studies and career prospects.
- Develop a user-friendly Bangla website for students seeking information and resources about studying in America.
- Implement a personalized university search engine that caters to the unique needs of Bangladeshi students.
- Create a mobile application that simplifies the university search and application process for students.
- Organize nationwide seminars on higher education abroad and career-related topics to enhance the knowledge and skills of Bangladeshi professionals.
- Prepare and distribute digital compilations called ‘Bapan Collection,’ which provide valuable insights and resources for students and professionals.
- Offer timely information on university funding opportunities and assist students in navigating the financial aspects of studying abroad.
- Provide personalized counseling to newly arrived students, addressing their needs and concerns.
- Share technical expertise with focus groups, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Assist focus groups in job hunting and job postings, helping them identify potential career opportunities.
- Provide information on the process of obtaining a Permanent Residency.
- Collaborate with other professional organizations to expand the reach of BAPAN’s services and enhance its impact.
Team:
President: Ehtesham Reza
Vice President: ASM Fakhrul Islam
Treasurer: Saiful Roney
Communication: Saiful Roney, Mahmudul Hasan Emon
Events Coordinator: Masudul Alam
Publication: Mamoon Rashid