Md. Zahir Iqbal: A Journey of Passion, Dedication, and Transformation. Growing up in a humble, middle-class family in the picturesque village of Hashimpur, Jessore Sadar, Md. Zahir Iqbal was inspired by a deep-rooted passion to serve his community. Son of Md. Abul Hossain, a courageous freedom fighter, Zahir was driven from a young age by a profound sense of duty and commitment to the development of the people around him.
His early years were marked by involvement in a variety of volunteer activities that aimed to improve the quality of life in his village. Even as a child, he knew he wanted to be a force for positive change, and he found his opportunity through grassroots initiatives. Zahir took the lead, organizing local youth to form a community-driven organization focused on education and welfare. They provided educational support to village students, extended a helping hand to those in need, and engaged in cultural and sports activities to steer the youth away from the dangers of drugs and militancy.
The Beginnings of a Dream: Stepping into IT
After completing school, Zahir moved to Jessore town, seeking higher education and a chance to make a broader impact. His fascination with the world of technology grew steadily, driven by the promise of Jessore—the first digital district of Bangladesh. With a clear vision, he set up a small IT center in 2009 with just a laptop and a single computer in the modest neighborhood of Khadki Post Office Para.
Zahir’s journey in IT officially began in 2011 when he conducted a 15-day basic computer training course, supported by the Department of Youth Development and organized by the Jessore District Council. This was only the beginning, as he opened “Abacus Computer Training” at Khadki Mor, Karbala Road, with his own hard-earned savings. Always aiming to improve his skills, Zahir completed a 21-day freelancing course in 2015. This investment in self-development enabled him to grow his business while simultaneously empowering the youth of his district with career counseling and IT training.
Within a short span, Abacus Computer Training became the leading IT training center in Jessore, with courses spanning from office applications and web development to graphics design, digital marketing, SEO, animation, and database management. This success led to the opening of a second branch in January 2018—a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Beyond Business: Building a Community for Change
Zahir’s work wasn’t limited to business. He recognized that real change required a collective effort and a deep commitment to social development. With that spirit, he founded two social organizations—“Swapnadekho” and the “Michael Madhusudan Debate Federation Bangladesh (MMDF)”—to harness the power of youth for national welfare. These organizations, licensed and supported by the Department of Social Services and Youth Development, were backed financially by Abacus. Under Zahir’s leadership, they quickly gained recognition for their dedication to education, cultural enrichment, and youth empowerment. Media coverage and public praise soon followed, highlighting the impact of his tireless efforts.
Establishing a Legacy in IT: Growth and Expansion
In 2018, Zahir took a significant step by registering his growing company as Abacus Soft BD Limited, transforming it into a joint-stock company. This was accompanied by membership in the prestigious Bangladesh Computer Samity (BCS), solidifying his commitment to the IT sector. Operating from the cutting-edge Sheikh Hasina Software Technology Park, his company has expanded to a 2,100-square-foot space where it delivers high-quality IT training and career development programs.
Through a series of innovative initiatives, Abacus Soft BD has reached about one million youth across Bangladesh. From school and college-based training programs to online courses, Zahir’s team has impacted lives with career workshops, cybersecurity awareness, debate training, and digital skill development.
National Recognition and Honors
Zahir’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. His contributions to education, IT, and social development earned him several prestigious awards, presented by the Prime Minister’s Information and Technology Advisor. He was also honored with the “Sahasi Tarunya Samman-2017” by The Daily Gramer Kagoj. In 2019, he represented Bangladesh as a youth ambassador during a state visit to India and later that year received the National Youth Award 2019, becoming the first recipient of this award in the Khulna Division.
Leading the Future: A Visionary in IT and Youth Empowerment
Today, Zahir is leading the way through his social organizations, “Swapnadekho Youth Welfare Organization” and “Michael Madhusudan Debate Federation Bangladesh (MMDF BD)” by continuing to instill patriotism, the spirit of the Liberation War, and practical skills in the youth. With every project, Zahir remains dedicated to his lifelong mission: to empower the next generation, harness their potential, and drive social transformation.
Md. Zahir Iqbal’s journey is a powerful reminder that passion, dedication, and the courage to dream can turn even the most modest beginnings into a story of inspiration. He has not only shaped the future of his community but has also left a lasting legacy in the fields of IT, education, and youth empowerment across Bangladesh.
