The Shawnirvor Project, implemented in the Khulna region (Maharajpur, Uttor Bedkashi, and Koyra), focused on empowering marginalized communities by addressing child marriage, gender-based violence, and economic empowerment. Throughout 2024, it combined awareness, skill development, legal aid, and local governance collaboration to build a more informed, resilient, and self-reliant community.
A key component was the “Uthan Boithok” sessions, which created safe spaces for dialogue and awareness. A total of 214 sessions engaged community members on issues like child marriage, forced marriage, and violence against women. These discussions empowered women to voice their concerns, encouraged men to reconsider harmful practices, and helped young girls resist early marriage and pursue education. Boys, meanwhile, learned about gender equality and the consequences of violence, fostering gradual shifts in social norms.
To strengthen livelihoods, the project provided skill development opportunities, including 11 sessions on climate-smart agriculture such as sack and vertical gardening. These innovative practices boosted food security in flood-prone areas. Additionally, 4 sessions on leadership and financial management equipped participants with the skills to manage resources effectively and take on leadership roles, fostering economic self-sufficiency.
Legal empowerment was another vital pillar. Upazila-level legal aid committee meetings educated communities about gender-based violence and guided them on accessing legal remedies. This initiative strengthened justice mechanisms and promoted a safer environment for women.
The project also emphasized stakeholder collaboration. Union-level lobby meetings with local leaders, police, and participants, along with coordination meetings with government and NGOs, ensured alignment with local development plans and strengthened long-term impact.
In total, the Shawnirvor Project directly benefited 2,479 individuals and indirectly reached 11,734 community members, creating ripple effects of awareness, empowerment, and resilience across Khulna.
