Published: 24 February 2025
The sprawling grounds of Hard Point, Sirajganj, buzzed with energy as thousands of scouts and volunteers gathered for the 7th National Scout Community Development Camp (COMDECA) 2025. An impressive anti-corruption cartoon display by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) stood out among the bustling events. The majority of the cartoons were produced by young cartoonists whom were winners and participants in the TIB-led cartoon competition.
By integrating anti-corruption advocacy into the country’s largest youth gathering, TIB is helping to build a generation of ethical leaders—young changemakers ready to challenge the status quo and push for a Bangladesh where honesty and accountability triumph over corruption.
For years, TIB has empowered youth to fight corruption, seeing them not just as future leaders but as changemakers today. At COMDECA 2025, this belief came to life.
A Picture Speaks a Thousand Words
One of the biggest draws was TIB’s anti-corruption cartoon exhibition, where students’ artwork vividly depicted corruption’s impact. Young scouts paused to reflect.
"I never thought about corruption this way," said one of them. "It makes me wonder—what can I do to change this?" This very question lay at the heart of TIB’s mission: to spark conversations and inspire action.
A Unified Oath Against Corruption
On February 22, thousands of scouts and volunteers raised their hands in an anti-corruption oath led by TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman.
"I pledge to stand against corruption, uphold integrity, and be a force for justice in my community."
Addressing the spirited crowd, Dr. Iftekharuzzaman emphasized the crucial role of youth in transforming Bangladesh into a nation free from corruption. He stressed that young people must be at the forefront of this movement to ensure greater prosperity for the country by eradicating corruption and ensuring justice for all. The energy and passion of the participants during the oath-taking ceremony reinforced the belief that youth-driven activism is one of the most potent forces for change.
Symbols of Commitment
To further solidify their commitment, scouts and volunteers received custom-designed waggles inscribed with the message: "Stop Corruption." These simple yet powerful symbols quickly became prized possessions, with many proudly wearing them as a reminder of their pledge.
The impact of TIB’s presence at COMDECA 2025 was undeniable. Scouts, volunteers, and officials alike shared positive feedback, expressing admiration for the engaging and meaningful way TIB addressed corruption.
Beyond the Camp: A Movement in the Making
While COMDECA 2025 was just a week-long event, its impact will last much longer. This year’s gathering brought together over 6,000 young people—4,000 rover scouts and 1,500 volunteers—each of whom left with a renewed sense of purpose.
For many participants, the journey does not end here. They are taking their newfound awareness back to their schools, communities, and families, sparking conversations that matter. And perhaps, in the not-so-distant future, some of them will be the ones leading the charge for a corruption-free Bangladesh.
