Inclusive school system, West Bangladesh

Everyone has the right to a quality education. Yet over 2 million children in Bangladesh do not have access to elementary schools. This is especially true for those living in remote rural areas such as Lalmonirhat and Rajshahi, where marginalized groups face even greater challenges. Child marriage, child labor, poverty and low levels of education are just some of the human rights violations these children face.

Inclusive and high-quality educational measures based on the state curriculum are currently lacking in the majority of these areas. The project aims to change this by giving pupils from socially disadvantaged families access to high-quality pre-school and primary education in renovated and child-friendly schools.

We not only focus on providing education, but also offer additional support for girls and students with special needs. Through the project, they can develop a passion for reading, writing and science. They are also made aware of important social issues and have more opportunities to be creative and physically active in their school.

To ensure the success of the project, both teachers and local project staff receive training. The teaching staff learn methods of child-centered pedagogy, while the employees are trained in working with marginalized groups, in advocacy towards the state and society as well as in project and financial management.

15,000 girls and boys from marginalized groups receive inclusive and equitable quality education in 60 government elementary school with integrated pre-schools in the districts of Lalmonirhat and Rajshahi.

In the initial phase of the project, 60 public elementary school will be supported in carrying out necessary renovation work. In addition, teaching materials will be procured for regular lessons from preschool to fifth grade. Special attention will be paid to the recruitment of talented teachers, educational organizations and support organizations for the preschools. In addition, meetings are organized with parents of students at risk of dropping out of school and home visits are conducted to address any concerns.

In the second year, health camps will be organized for all pupils in the supported elementary school. A team of medical professionals will carry out health checks, administer medication if necessary and offer preventative health advice. Extracurricular sporting and cultural activities are promoted by providing the schools with sports equipment and instruments. Exciting sporting and cultural events are held on special occasions.

As part of the support, each school receives a library and an annual science fair to motivate pupils to read and stimulate their thirst for research. The formation of student councils will help to strengthen student representation. In addition, students transitioning from elementary school to secondary school will receive special support to ensure a smooth educational path.

The project aims to strengthen the capacity of project staff, government schools and local education authorities through comprehensive training initiatives. The project will provide specialized training for teachers at all levels and members of the Education Development Committee. Partner NGOs will actively participate in information exchange visits to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing.

With your support, we will renovate 60 elementary school, train teachers and give children access to inclusive and quality education.