Bangladesh is one of the poorest and most densely populated countries in the developing world, with very limited resources. Nearly 80 percent of its people live in rural areas. The majority of this rural population lives in poverty, while the rest belong to the middle and upper classes. The poor struggle to meet their basic needs.
Since independence, non-governmental development organizations have been working to alleviate poverty and ensure basic rights for this large underprivileged population. These organizations began their journey by providing different forms of financial and humanitarian support. Over time, they introduced savings and credit programs, aiming to empower especially women through economic self-reliance. By charging small service fees, they sought not only to support the poor but also to achieve sustainability as institutions.
The commitment to reduce poverty, fulfill basic needs, and restore human dignity through small-scale loans tailored to the poor has quietly grown into a silent revolution. As part of that effort, a non-governmental organization called Unnayan Prochesta started its journey in 1993 in the southwestern region of Bangladesh with a unique approach.
I gratefully acknowledge that both the General and Executive Committees have been fulfilling their responsibilities sincerely, individually and collectively, to ensure the progress and success of Unnayan Prochesta. The Executive Committee holds regular meetings, takes necessary decisions for the organization, and follows up to ensure proper implementation. Under the strong leadership of the President, Mr. Md. Mojibur Rahman, the organization has earned the confidence and trust of local administration as well as the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), whose loan support continues to grow every year.
I also extend my heartfelt thanks to all staff members and officers of Unnayan Prochesta for their tireless work, honesty, and dedication. Without their committed service, the expansion of our working areas and improvement of quality would not have been possible. On behalf of Unnayan Prochesta, I would like to express deep gratitude to PKSF for their continued support and valuable guidance. I also thank the local government, administration, and the members of community associations organized under Unnayan Prochesta for their participation and cooperation.
I firmly believe that the progress and success of Unnayan Prochesta will continue to grow in the years ahead.
Sheikh Yakub Ali
Director, Unnayan Prochesta