"Innovation for empowering quality of life"

Together for Tomorrow: Enhancing Cooperation for Social Sustainability

Project Location: Dacope upazila of Khulna district
Project Period: May 15, 2025- May 14, 2027
Financed by: Switzerland, Canada and European Union (EU) coordinated by GFA Consulting Group
Total Budget:  BDT 23,163,351.00

Direct Beneficiaries: 2,245 (direct)

Democracy grows stronger when citizens actively participate; ensuring every voice is heard and marginalized communities can claim their rights and contribute to national development.

The Project is funded by the Switzerland, Canada and European Union (EU) coordinated by GFA Consulting Group and implemented by DALIT. DALIT, a leading national NGO in the southern part of Bangladesh, is committed to advancing the dignity, rights, and opportunities of Dalit and marginalised communities. Rooted in its long-standing mission to empower excluded groups, DALIT is implementing the Civic Engagement Project in Dacope Upazila, Khulna, a region marked by acute climate vulnerability and socio-economic disparities. Building on DALIT’s proven work in education and deep community trust, the project seeks to create pathways for inclusive participation and social equity.

Project Objective

Increased voice, representation, recognition, and participation of civil society (especially women, youth, and members of marginalized communities) in decision-making, influencing, holding government to account, and seeking redress for violations.

Expected Results/Outcomes

  • Outcome 01: 5,000 citizens (with a minimum of 60% women, Dalits, youth, and other marginalized groups) across 3 unions (Bajua, Banishanta, and Laudobe) in Dacope Upazila will be actively engaged in civic participation and local governance processes.
  • Outcome 02: Strengthened partnerships and networks with 30+ NGOs/CSOs and government bodies, 1 Model Union, 3 policy briefs, and 5 community-driven innovation projects, amplifying marginalized communities’ voices in governance.
  • Outcome 03: Increased interaction and dialogue between civil society, citizens, and GOB through 12 combined dialogues, forums, workshops, and a mobile app promoting inclusive and accountable governance.
  • Outcome 04: Increased capacities of civil society organizations

Target Population

Target Population: NGOs, CSOs, youth-led organizations, youth leaders (including women, persons with disabilities, NEET/EET), marginalized communities, researchers, media, union parishad officials, and government stakeholders for capacity building, partnerships, awareness, and policy engagement.

Geographical Locations

The project will be implemented in Dacope Upazila, Khulna, focusing on Bajua, Banishanta, and Laudobe Unions areas highly vulnerable to climate risks and acute marginalization, with a project office established in Bajua Union for coordination.

Aligns with SDGs 

SDG 5, 10, 13, 16