Implementing partner: POPI

Countries: Bangladesh

Dates: 2008 -

Donors: Isle of Man Overseas Aid Committee

Learning for Life and POPI begun work in October 2008 in the slums of Dhaka City, Bangladesh to bring health and education support to 240 children (aged 6 to 12 years) from the most marginalized and deprived households. These children's parents earn barely enough to provide two meals a day and they have no access to sanitation, clean water or secure shelter.

So far four school centres have been established, with the help of local Ward Commissioners, at four different shantytown locations. These centres have simple furniture, fixtures, safe drinking water, electricity and hygienic toilets for staff and pupils. Four school teachers, two cultural/recreational teachers, and four support staff have been recruited and trained on educational strategies and school management.

The children attend school five days a week, each day consisting of two teaching periods, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The children also enjoy a "cultural function day" held every four months, during which there are different cultural performances, showcasing children's talents, and offering them previously unattainable opportunities. Children receive books, slates/papers for writing on, pens and colour pencils for writing and drawing, all provided by the school. Each child is given two sets of school uniform, nutritious meals once a week, and healthy snacks. Parents, guardians and the community are involved in the running of the school, the upkeep of the buildings as well as providing security, ensuring maximum community participation. 

Children also receive primary health education, including information about nutrition and personal hygiene and parents receive health education during parent meetings. Medical practitioners check on the health of each child at three-month intervals. Where necessary, they prepare prescriptions, provide the required treatment, or refer the child to a Government hospital.

To guarantee the sustainability of this project we have set up workshops involving government officials, representatives of the business community, and locally elected community leaders. These are held three times a year to attract people to render their support in achieving the programme objectives.

Beneficiaries
240 children of whom 50% or more will be girls.
2400 parents, families, or guardians and members of the local community
This project can be modelled and replicated in other cities by the Government or other NGOs, resulting in the most marginalised communities being able to play a more positive social and economic role.