In response to the growing cultural and educational needs of the community, the Social Services and Management Trust (SSMT)—a registered charitable organization—has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting education, the arts, culture, and sports among children and youth. As part of this mission, the Trust has established a dedicated performing arts academy, funded entirely through its own resources, to provide high-quality training in vocal and instrumental music, dance, painting, drama, martial arts and recitation.

The Ananda Academy for Performing Arts was officially formally inaugurated by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change on 15th February 2025, as the chief guest. The inauguration of this project by the Social Services and Management Trust (SSMT) was held at SSMT House in the Baridhara area of the capital with the objective of offering children and adolescents’ meaningful opportunities to engage with and explore the world of performing arts.

During the inauguration ceremony, the environment adviser highlighted the crucial connection between cultural practices and sustainable environmental and social development, conveying, “Culture and the environment are interconnected, and a healthy cultural practice can contribute positively to environmental conservation.”

In her address, Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan stated, “Culture is a fundamental medium for shaping human consciousness. For instance, a person with a strong cultural foundation would never resort to electrocution to kill wild elephants or harm wildlife like fishing cats without reason.”

A thriving cultural practice, she asserted, is key to strengthening the nation. She extended her best wishes to the academy, commending its innovative approach and expressing hope for its success in achieving its mission.

The event was chaired by Mrs. Nasreen Subhan, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of SSMT with the other members of the Board and included performances by celebrated cultural figures such as Mr. Ramendu Majumdar, Rebeka Sultana, Abida Sultana and Shamim Ara Nipa.

The academy currently serving students residing in Baridhara, Gulshan, Niketan, Banani, Bashundhara, Banani DOHS, Mohakhali DOHS, and Baridhara DOHS. Enrollment is open to both boys and girls aged five years and above from these areas.