Is it imaginable that in 2025 children and students are still struggling to study after sunset because they have no access to electricity? Unfortunately, for many communities in Bangladesh this remains a harsh reality. But, Sumaiya Akhter Brishty, one young innovator, has come up with a simple yet powerful solution that could potentially resolve this problem both sustainably and effectively. Her creation, the Green Schoolbag has not only won national recognition but also sparked hope for thousands of students across the country. 

About the young innovator 

Brishty is a student of the department of Business Administration at the University of Asia Pacific (UAP). Beyond her academics, she is deeply passionate about creativity, innovation and projects that combine social impact and sustainability. 

“I wanted to address a real problem faced by rural students; the lack of light due to low electricity supply for studying after sunset. That is how I decided to submit my idea, the Green Schoolbag.” Shared Brishty.

It all began during her semester break when she came across on online advertisement for the Energy Innovation Challenge. It is a nationwide competition organised by PRAAN. Initially Brishty was hesitant but later she was drawn in by the theme of renewable energy and its potential to create social good. 

About the competition and PRAAN’s vision 

The Energy innovation Challenge by PRAAN is a platform that encourages young people to bring forward innovative ideas in renewable energy, energy efficiency and green transition. It bridges the gap between innovation and social development and inspires youth to turn their ideas into real life problem solving projects. 

“It is important because it inspires practical solutions for Bangladesh’s future energy needs while empowering students like us to turn ideas into real projects. They not only encourage practical, community-focused solutions but also empower students and youth to believe in their ideas and turn them into real prototypes.” Brishty explained. 

This year, the competition had 194 submissions from across Bangladesh. Brishty’s journey from being shortlisted in the top 35, to advancing to the top 15 and finally becoming one of the top 5 winners was nothing but inspiring. As Brishty reflected, “Each stage made me believe more in myself and taught me that simple ideas can also create real impact if presented with clarity and purpose and it also meant that my idea had real value.”

The Green Schoolbag 

It is a simple, affortable and sustainable solution designed for students living in remote riverine areas where access to reliable electricity is still a challenge. The concept is straightforward: the bag comes equipped with a small solar panel that charges during the day while the students carry it to school. At night, the stored energy powers a built in LED lamp that provides 2.5 to 5 hours of safe, bright light. 

This innovation replaces harmful kerosene lamps and eliminates the expense of buying fuel or paying to electricity bills. It ensures that children can continue their studying even after the dark. In Brishty’s own words, “By providing free, renewable lighting, the Green Schoolbag ensures that these students get an equal chance to study and learn, regardless of where they live and allows them to study in the evening without worrying about electricity bills or harmful alternatives.”

Building the prototype 

While the concept was powerful, bringing it to life was not easy. Brishty worked entirely on her own from designing, assembling and creating her presentation materials. “The most challenging part was building the prototype. I had no team member, so I did everything by myself,” she said. “From thinking about the idea to designing the final poster, it was all me. But This taught me the importance of patience and creativity in innovation.”

Her biggest hurdle was staying within the budget while sourcing materials like solar panel, batteries and LEDs. She started small, focousing on the functionality of the design before refining it step by step. 

Future potential and expansion 

Brishty now plans to improve the prototype and test it in real rural communities with the help of fellowship funding and expert mentorship. Her vision includes adding USB charging ports, portable fans, stronger batteries and more durable materials to make the bag long lasting. 

She believes the Green Schoolbag has the potential to solve a pressing issue sustainably and effectively. “I hope to refine the design and make it scalable for more students,” Said Brishty. 

Advice for Aspiring Innovators – Bristy wants other young people to know that every idea, no matter how small has value. “Do not hesitate to share your ideas, no matter how simple they seem. Every big change starts small. Competitions like this are a great way to learn, grow and bring your vision to life.” She also encouraged her fellow UAP students to take initiative. 

Throughout her journey, Bristy received moral support from her family and valuable feedback from competition jury members. UAP also stood by her, officially recognising and celebrating her achievement. “UAP gave me confidence and motivation to continue developing my project,” she said. 

Her Green Schoolbag is more than just a tool; it is a symbol of hope, equity and sustainable progress for the next generation of learners in Bangladesh.

To all innovative creators!