Published: 09 December 2023
Four persons of different generations struggle under the heavy burden of an affluent man seated comfortably on a chair. However, below him, a sharp pencil labelled 'education' hints at his impending downfall.
Tanvir Malek, a Fine Art student at Dhaka University, crafted this thought-provoking satirical cartoon, highlighting the enduring impact of injustice and poverty - stemming from unchecked corruption. The artwork stresses the transformative power of education in addressing such societal issues.
Joining forces with youths from educational institutions nationwide, Tanvir participated in the 18th TIB Anti-Corruption Cartoon Competition. These young minds used their creativity to depict corruption's devastating effects on the society, conveying a strong protest against this all-pervasive social disease.
IACD Celebration and Awards Ceremony: TIB hosted its flagship Anti-Corruption Cartoon Competition’s award-giving ceremony on December 9 to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD).
Anti-Corruption Cartoon Exhibition and Virtual Gallery: A highlight of the event was opening of the Anti-Corruption Cartoon Exhibition 2023 and launching of a virtual cartoon gallery. Featuring a diverse array of cartoons condemning various societal vices, the exhibition runs at TIB's Dhanmondi Office until December 23. Besides, anyone can visit the virtual gallery anytime by clicking this link – https://www.ti-bangladesh.org/virtual-gallery
Groups and Winners: The competition featured two age groups – Group-A (13-18 years) and Group-B (19-25 years). Six talented youths emerged as winners, with 23 cartoonists earning special mention. The notable winners include Md. Tahsin Bin Ibrahim, Estiak Ahmed Toufique, and Mugdho Roy Nibir in Group-A, and Md. Abdur Rahman Talukder, Debadrita Halder, and Tanvir Malek in Group-B.
Jury Board: The distinguished jury board members included Mr. Ahsan Habib, Cartoonist and Editor of 'Unmad', the most prominent cartoon magazine in Bangladesh; Mr. Shishir Bhattacharjee, Professor at the Faculty of Fine Art, University of Dhaka; and Mr. Sharier Khan, Cartoonist and Executive Editor of The Business Standard.
Cartoon, a Powerful Tool Against Corruption: TIB envisions a social movement against corruption, fostered by active involvement of the youth. As part of the movement, the organization recognizes the potency of cartoon in the fight against corruption. Since 2006, TIB has been organizing the annual cartoon exhibition, providing a platform for young minds to express their views on corruption. The organization believes in the youths' active engagement in the social movement against corruption, and envisions that their involvement can sow the seed of 'say no to corruption' in the newer generations. To date, 3,520 cartoonists have submitted 7,093 cartoons against corruption.
