Ghashful Shishu Bikash Kendra
Project Period: January 1993 – Present
Location: East Madarbari, Chattogram City Corporation
Target Beneficiaries: Children and adolescents from underprivileged Dalit (Sweeper) communities [104 enrolled]
Background:
“Education must be an equal opportunity for all.” Guided by this principle, Ghashful has been committed to ensuring access to education for the most vulnerable children in society. To address educational inequities faced by children of the Dalit community, Ghashful established the Shishu Bikash Kendro, an Early Child Development Center (ECDC). This initiative provides a nurturing and inclusive environment where children can develop psychosocially while gaining early learning skills. In addition to tutorial assistance, the center encourages cultural and creative learning, allowing children to explore their talents and build confidence in a safe and supportive setting.
Objectives:
The project aims to provide early childhood care and non-formal education, combined with psychosocial support, for underprivileged and out-of-school children. It focuses on school readiness, academic support, and life skills development, ensuring that children are equipped to succeed in formal primary education and beyond.
Key Outputs and Activities:
Ghashful Shishu Bikash Kendro engages children through structured yet flexible learning programs. The Early Child Development Center offers age-appropriate lessons, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and foundational knowledge to prepare children for school. Alongside academic support, the program emphasizes psychosocial development, helping children build social and emotional skills in a caring environment.
The center also hosts cultural and creative activities, such as music, art, storytelling, and performance-based learning, allowing children to explore their interests and develop confidence. Adolescent participants receive targeted tutorial support to strengthen academic performance and life skills, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
To encourage school enrollment and retention, the program provides guidance and mentoring for children transitioning into formal primary education. By combining educational support with holistic development, Ghashful ensures that every child has an opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, regardless of social or economic barriers.
