Completion Report PHR by nssngo

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Protecting Human Rights (PHR) Program

Project Completion Report

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Submitted by Nazrul Smriti Sangsad-NSS

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Project Completion Report

Protecting Human Rights (PHR) Program Period: July 2013 to December 31, 2016

Date of Submission: 31 December 2016

Submitted by Shahabuddin Panna Executive Director Nazrul Smriti Sangsad-NSS Sweden Palace (1st Floor) Pallabi R/A, Upazila: Amtali District: Barguna

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Submitted to Chief of Party Protecting Human Rights (PHR) Program Plan International Bangladesh

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Table of Contents I. NARRATIVE REPORT ...................................................................................................................................... 6 COMPONENT 1: ADVOCACY ..................................................................................................................... 6 COMPONENT 4: SURVIVOR SERVICES................................................................................................... 15 COMPONENT 5: MASS AWARENESS AND EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN ............................................. 21 III. LESSONS LEARNED AND CHALLENGES................................................................................................ 32 IV. SUSTAINABILITY PLAN ............................................................................................................................ 33 V. MANAGEMENT ISSUES ...................................................................................................................................... 34

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Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

I. SUMMARY OF THE REPORT Nazrul Smriti Sangsad-NSS got the privilege to implement USAID funded PHR program at Barguna with the support of Plan International Bangladesh. This was great opportunity for us to implement such types of program successfully. During the forty months of interventions, starting from July 2013 and closing on 31st December 2016, we could have developed our organizational capacity, good rapport building with different types of stakeholders at upazila and district level. We could overcome challenges of working with different groups of people like madrasa and religious groups. These people were never reached earlier by any organization; but we could do some changes with them. People are aware about the domestic violence (prevention and protection) act 2010, about the impact of early marriage; they know where to complain for preventing child marriage and domestic violence, where to go for seeking victim support and legal aid support. NGO activities were prohibited in madras campus. But now madrasas are very much cooperative to extend their support for preventing sexual harassment, girl marriage and domestic violence. Imams are very much positive to prevent child marriage and they are discussing about the bad effect of child marriage in their discussions in Jumma prayer (on every Friday).

Component 1: Advocacy Under this component NSS collected 301 evidence based data both reported and unreported. NSS in collaboration with local administration and civil society prevented 202 child marriages at Barguna sadar Upazila. A divisional level advocacy meeting was held at Barisal division on 24th March 2014 where Mr. Gaus, Divisional Commissioner and Joint Secretary attended as a chief guest. During the project period total 6 upazila level quarterly meeting was held. Total 5 advocacy meetings were held at district level. These meetings also included one District Level Consultation Workshop on “Formulation of National Plan of Action to Prevent Child Marriage 2015-2021” facilitated by Dr. Abul Hossain, Project Director – Multi Sectoral Program to Prevent Violence against Women and Children. Another meeting with Tusk Force Committee to purse to declare Barguna as Child Marriage free district Advocacy Meeting at District Level. Total 10 Union Violence against Women and Children (UVWC) committees were formed to reduce violence against women and children at union level. Ten Legal Aid Support Committees were formed at Union level. Total 6 persons were given Champion Award by NSS in 2014 and 2015 respectively. During the project timeline total 5 meetings were held with DLAC.

Component 2: Capacity Building Capacity building is one of the important components of PRH program. In order to build capacity 28 teachers (20 male and 8 female) of 56 schools and 37 madrasas of Barguna Sadar Upazila were orientated as Master Trainers to conduct school sessions. During the timeline 8 batches (3days each) of ToT for School Teachers to conduct school sessions were provided to 228 teachers (177 male and 51 female) of 56 schools and 37 madrasas. Total 11 batches (1 day’s) trainings were given to 290 (126 male and 164femle) sexual harassment prevention committee members about their duties and responsibilities at institutional (school and madras) level. In order to prevent child marriage total 317 (including 1 Hindu marriage registrar) non register imam and purohits were oriented. Page 4 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh Training (one batch) was given to partner staff and UP secretary on conducting meeting and documentation. Total 12 batches life skill training to 310 (89 male and 221 female) youth groups were given. Police Trainings (3 batches) were given to Police Personnel. Total 20 Social Workers of PHR program received training on psychosocial counseling, gender and paralegal. Under the PHR program 7 batches of trainings provided to 168 Gram Police on their roles to reduce DV. Sub-SPG (82 members) trained in legal literacy and community mobilization at the union level. Total 7 batches Peer Educator Mobilization Trainings were provided 200 persons (100 male and 100 female). Total 2 batches trainings were given to 54 (53male and 1female) Hindu and Muslim Marriage Registrars about their roles and responsibilities to prevent child marriage and domestic violence at district level. Ten batches training provided to 266 imams on their roles and responsibilities to prevent child marriage and domestic violence. Total 50 Purohits received training on their roles and responsibilities to prevent child marriage and domestic violence. Total 251(181male and 70 female) Union VAW Committee members receive training to on their roles and responsibilities. A one day’s training was given to 14 members of district and upazila women affairs department on developing mediation skill. Training was given 22 (8 male and 14 female) young people on Gender Sensitive Radio Program and Broadcasting through Community Radio. Training provided to 54 members of Upazila Women Development Forum. One day’s training was given to 30 UP male members on preventing violence against women.

Component 4: Survivor Services During the project period 2431 Psychosocial Counseling was given (average 3 times) to the victims. Total 942 persons were given referral service, 75 persons medical service, 867 survivors linked with livelihood supports from Union Parishad for VGF, 40 survivors for VGF and 1 survivor for receiving sewing machine from NSS during the project timeline. Total 1702 survivors were

enrolled during the period which were – domestic violence 1296, dowry – 159, early marriage – 171, trafficking – 1, sexual harass – 36, rape – 3, and other 36. During the period 29 cases of DV mediated though monitoring. Total 81 Ward SPGs were formed at 9 unions during May–June 2015. Total 533 numbers of Quarterly Meetings of Ward SPG were held. During the period total 50 Quarterly Union SPG and 30 Union level VAWC Committee meetings were held. All the social workers, SPG members, UVAWC members, civil society, government officials were active to provide survivors’ support.

Component 5: Mass Awareness and Educational Campaign Mass awareness is one of the important components of PHR program. Through this initiative community people were mobilized to create demand and it was also possible to aware mass people on domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment, dowry and human rights related issues. At community level total 2,361 courtyard meetings with the participation of 81,959 people (32,343 male and 49,610 female) during the project period. With male members 389 courtyard meeting were held with the participation of 12,159 people. Adolescent groups were also involved and during the project period 451 meetings were held with 7,114 boys and 9,094 girls respectively. Total 140 meetings were held with couples at 10 unions with 1,632 couples. During the period people awareness campaigns were done at Barguna sadar upazila though fixing 100,000 stickers at different places of 10 unions with covering 73,783 households, schools, madrasas, Page 5 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh colleges, clubs and offices by 270 youth group members. Total 229,108 people have been aware about child marriage, domestic violence, sexual harassment and other human rights related issues. Total 9 youth groups were formed and oriented with the participation of 236 (79 male and 157 female). These youth groups meet 39 study circles during the project period. Total 56 numbers of SMC meetings were held. PHR program’s issues were discussed with the participation of 1198 members (919 male and 279 female). Total 31,063 students (14,439 boys and 16,624 girls) of 56 schools and 37 madrasas of Barguna Sadar upazila received lessons on domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment and other human rights related issues. These students are playing good role to aware their family, their neighbors and their friends about the impact of child marriage. Different days like – International Women’s Day (8 March) 25th November, 16 days campaign, Begum Rokeya day (9th December), International Human Rights Day (10 December), National Child Marriage Prevention Day (29th September) and National Legal Aid Day (28th April) through different programs with participations of local administration, judges, govt. officials, lawyers, teachers, journalists, NGOs, social workers, human rights activists and freedom fighters. These days were celebrated through rally, human chain, discussion meetings, signature campaigns, drama, cultural show, video show, gathering of parents, couples, daughter-in-laws and mother-in-laws, gender sensitive games, women fair and award giving for greater contribution in protecting human rights.

I. NARRATIVE REPORT During the reporting period (July 2013 to December 2016) the activities carried out under the respective components are described below:

COMPONENT 1: ADVOCACY Advocacy is one of the significant components of the PHR program. NSS tried to enhance advocacy efforts with administration, civil society and local community people. Under the initiatives time to time communications and collaborative initiatives were taken with the government and non government organizations. Different types of problems were identified by community people and some of those were solved with collaboration of local administration. Similarly the problems which could not be solved at community and local level were shared at upazila, district and divisional level through advocacy meetings with policy makers like – MP, Divisional Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner and Upazila Nirbahi Officer. On 24th March 2015 NSS organized a divisional level advocacy meeting at DC Office conference room of Barisal where Mr. Md. Gaus, Divisional Commissioner of Barisal was the chief guest. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Shahidul Alam, Deputy Commissioner of Barisal. The issue of the meeting was – Challenges to execute Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2010 and Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Rule 2013. The 39 participants’ meeting was encompassed with District and Upazila Women Affairs Officers, President of Press Club, PHR Champions, members of Upazila Human Rights Advocacy Forum, Panel Lawyers, Assistant Public Prosecutors and NGO representatives. The suggestions extracted were that – i) there will be a counseling center at Women Affairs Office, ii) to provide legal authority to Women Affairs Officers and to execute Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2010, iii) to introduce house to house legal counseling at community level, iv) to arrange meeting to execute Domestic Violence Page 6 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh (Prevention and Protection) Act 2010 by Chief Judicial Magistrate, Nirbahi Magistrate, Police, Lawyer and Women Affairs Officer. It was possible to form Upazila Human Rights Advocacy Forum at Barguna Sadar Upazila. This Forum is headed by Upazila Nirbahi Officer. Under the program this is one of the significant achievements of advocacy. In spite of phase of the PHR program this forum is functioning and the members are active to raise fund to continue the forum’s activities and to support victim. It has been possible to declare Barguna a child marriage free district by the district administration through aligning with the government initiatives and the organization has got advantage of becoming a taskforce member to prevent child marriage. In addition with the intense support and cooperation of district and upazila administration the program got congenial environment to prevent child marriage, domestic, violence and gender base violence. Through advocacy initiative it has been possible to work with madras, imams, purohits, kazis and religious leader who at the very outset of the program did not agree to give us floor on the issues. One of challenging job was to introduce awareness sessions on domestic violence, gender base violence and sexual harassment at madrasas. There prevailed a different culture at madrasa campus which was restricted for NGOs. But due to effective advocacy we could break the silence.

IR 1: Key DV and HR Legislation and Policies Enforced Table 1: Sharing meeting with high level stakeholders Ref # 1.2.B 1.2.C 1.2.E Indicator 1.3

Activities Sharing workshops with Judges through the DLACs (one meeting per month per district) Meetings with MOWCA on program sustainability Coordination meetings with different stakeholders at District Level # of child marriages prevented

# of Event

Male

Female

Total M+F

1 4

24 104

12 44

36 148

199

202

1.2.B Sharing workshops with Judges through the DLACs During the reporting period NSS with cooperation of Plan International Bangladesh organized 4 meetings of District Legal Aid (DLAC) were held on October 28, 2014, on June 15, 2015, March 29, 2015 and 26 October 2016 consecutively at the conference room of District Judge, Barguna. The purpose of the meeting was to strengthen the legal aid support for poor and vulnerable people. The meeting decided that – i) awareness will be created on legal aid support through courtyard meeting at community level, ii) support will be provided to the vulnerable people according the sectors, iii) support will be given from PHR to collect copies of cases documents, and iv) prepare banner, festoons, leaflet under PHR program.

1.2.D Meetings with MOWCA on program sustainability District level coordination meeting was held on 14th December 2016 at conference room of Deputy Commissioner, Barguna. The objective of the meeting was to – i) share about the progress of PHR Page 7 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh program at grass root level and ii) the sustainability of the program. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Md. Nuruzzaman, ADC (General) Barguna. Special guest of the meeting was Dr. Md. Muhammad Bashirul Alam, Deputy Commissioner of Barguna. Ms. Meherun Nahar Munni, District Women Affairs Officer, Barguna was the special guest of the meeting. In addition representatives from GOs, NGOs, journalists, public representatives and other stakeholders were present in the meeting. Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, Regional Project Manger-PHR program shared the significant achievements and changes of the PHR program at Barguna Sadar upazila. Later on suggestions were taken from the audience through open discussions. The major suggestions were – i) the PHR program should be extended for long time to see the optimum result of the human rights related issues, ii) initiative from Deputy Commissioner to continue the activities of violence against women and children committee, iii) provide study data to the DC, Barguna regarding the situation of child marriage.

1.2.E Coordination meetings with different stakeholders at District Level In order to functional and accelerate the existing committees regarding violence against women and children, different types of advocacy meetings were held at upazila and district level. At the very beginning of the program activities most of the committees were inactive and the members did not sit regularly. With a view to involve local administration we organized meetings with district level stakeholders. Most of the meetings were chaired by Deputy Commissioner, Barguna. In addition, Civil Surgeon, Police Supper, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Magistrate and with other members of the committee including District Women Affairs Officer, President of Barguna Press Club, Upazila Chairman, Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Barguna Sadar upazila participated in these meetings. In these meetings Pans RPM presented the domestic violence, sexual harassment and child marriage situation at Barguna sadar upazila through power point presentation. After presentation an open discussion session was done to collect opinions, ideas, suggestions, feed backs to for improvement and effective implementation of program activities. In the year 2016 two meetings were held on 15th March 2016 with 27 participants (24 male and 3 female) and on 13 June 2016 with 30 participants (21 male and 9 female) were respectively held at district level. The purpose of the meeting was – to accelerate the initiatives of the members, to develop their capacity as well as increase communication with different sectors, to share about their supportive roles in implementing the PHR program and the current situation of domestic violence, child marriage and sexual harassment and finally to draw more attention of the local administration on the issues. The major results of these meetings are – upazila and union committees have been activated, letters have been issued by deputy commissioner for protecting child marriage and sexual harassment at each secondary school, VOWC committee members are aware about their roles in the committee, fund raised to provide survivors support tk. 24,700 (which is deposited in a separate bank account in the name upazila human rights advocacy forum), During the period we formed 10 VOWC Committees at union level. These committee are constituted – (i) Badarkhali union 27 members (18 male and 9 female), (ii) Gourichanna union 27 members (20 male and 7 female), (iii) Fuljhuri union 27 members (20 male and 7 female) (iv) Kewrabunia union 27 members (19 male and 8 female), (v) Aylapatakata union 27 members (20 male and 7 female), (vi) Page 8 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh Bourirchar union 27 members (19 male and 8 female), (vii) Dhalua union 27 members (20 male and 7 female), (viii) Barguna sadar union 27 members (19 male and 8 female), (ix) M. Baliatoli union 27 members (17 male and 10 female) and (x) Naltona union 27 members (19 male and 8 female).

Indicator 1.3: # of child marriage prevented During the period of intervention NSS with the support of Plan International Bangladesh prevented 202 child marriages in Barguna which includes 03 boys and 199 girls. It was possible with the support of local administration, upazila human rights advocacy forum members, social workers, journalists, teachers and NGO activists. After preventing those child marriages our social workers have regularly followed up them. Out of these 80% girls are involved in education and rest 20% are staying at home without undergoing marriage. Table 2: Child Marriage Prevention Table # of underage survivors Districts Boy Girl Total Barguna 03 199 202 Total:

Sub-IR 1.1: Enhanced Advocacy Efforts of the Civil Society Organizations and the Coalitions Indicator GNDR-1: Number of laws, policies, or procedures drafted, proposed or adopted to promote gender equality at the regional, national or local level Table 3: workshop/meeting on policy reform and legislation issues Ref: #

Activity Descriptions

# of Participants

# of event

Male

Female

Total

GNDR-1.B

National level dissemination of newly adopted CMRA

GNDR-1.C

Divisional level dissemination of newly adopted CMRA Workshop on strategy on prevention of child marriage (district level) National consultation for finalizing the strategy on CM

GNDR-1.D GNDR-1.E GNDR-1.G GNDR-1.I

GNDR-1.K

GNDR-1.L GNDR-1.M

Strategic partnership with Min. of Ed. & NCTB and Directorate of Physical Education (# of meetings) Facilitating the half-yearly meeting of National Committee on VAWC Advocacy with LG Divisionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LGSP-II program and SDF under Finance Division for assisting survivors of DV in their skill development and creating livelihood options (# of meetings) Advocacy meetings with JATI and ITA for adoption of PHR module in their curriculums (# of meeting) Working with media editors and women journalists at national level (# of meeting) Total:

GNDR-1.D: Workshop on strategy on prevention of child marriage (district level) Page 9 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh On 31st May 2015 a workshop was held on National Action Plan for Preventing Child Marriage 2015-2021 at Deputy Commissioner’s Conference room, Barguna. The workshop was chaired by Mr. Zahirul Islam, Deputy Commissioner, Barguna. Dr. Abul Hossain, Project Director – Multi Sectoral Program to Prevent Violence Against Women under the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs – was the chief guest. Other participants were – govt. officials, lawyers, press club chairman, other journalists, union parishad chairmen, NGO representatives, kazi, imams, teachers, hindu marriage registrar, union parishad secretary, guardians and child representatives. Total participants of the workshop were 38 comprising with 28 male and 10 female. Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, RPM - Plan International Bangladesh delivered welcome speech. Md. Shahidul Islam, Director Program-NSS, discussed about the objectives as well as the comments and recommendations of PHR program which were extracted from different meetings with stakeholders. Dr. Abul Hossain presented the situations of child marriage in Bangladesh through power point. At the end of the presentation the facilitator (Dr. Abul Hossain) collected the following recommendations through group work: Before issuing birth registration certificate, EPI card will be checked UP. Date of birth shall be shown in every Character Certificate issued by UP. Every Kazi Office will maintain a record book (balam boi) and the number pages of this book will be certified by Upazila Women Affairs Officer. Any person can file a case against child marriage. A 5 members monitoring cell shall be formed to prevent child marriage where upazila women affairs officer will be the president. In case of child married boy and girl, no one shall be allowed either admitted in educational institutions or attend class nevertheless they can participate examination through private. The unions where child marriage is in high prevalence those unions shall be discarded from GO/NGO support. Actions will be taken against the marriages which will be done outside the catchment areas. The security of women shall have to be ensured 16 years option shall be eliminated and 18 years will be predictable. No marriage will be done before attaining voting rights and availing job. Girl from one area shall not be given married to other area and the kazi will perform his job within his jurisdiction. Child marriage prevention committee shall be formed with the students of every school. Make Hindu marriage registration compulsory. Child marriage preventers will be encouraged through giving awards. Awareness will be created at grass root level through training Sensitizing imams to discuss about the bad impact child marriage in khuthba (jumma prayer) Encourage girls for their economic empowerment through receiving technical/vocational education. Introduce school base sessions to prevent child marriage. Control drugs and disturbances of dissipated boys and men. Extend ethical education. Discourage Notary Public to perform marriage related activities. Sensitize guardians and students through PTA gathering. Mr. Zahirul Islam, Deputy Commissioner of Barguna appreciated all for contributing National Action Plan for Preventing Child Marriage 2015-2021 and he closed the workshop.

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Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Indicator 1.1.1: # of champions recognized in national and divisional level award ceremonies 1.1.1.A: Selection of Champions Champion Selection in 2014 With a view to patronize contributions and to crate enthusiasm in preventing gender base violence, child marriage, sexual harassment, dowry, domestic violence related human right violation at community level we organized champion award program at Barguna sadar upazila. The steps we followed for selecting champions were – i) publish advertisement to seek application from the contributors, ii) form a jury board with UNO, DWAO, Chairman Press Club, Plan International, BNWLA representative and ED NSS as observers iii) scrutinize and short listing the applications and presenting to jury board. Advertisement was given in the Dainik Saikat on 26 October 2013 and in the Dainik Dipanchal on 30 October 2013 for selecting champion in 2014. Ten applications were received from the interested persons which were – Mr. Md. Shahjahan Mia (advocate), Mr. Md. Jamal Hossain (advocate), Mr. Zakir Hossain Miraz (human right activist), Mr. Shamsuddin Khan (human right activist), Ms. Baby Das (human right activist), Mr. Alhajj Md. Azizul Haque Shapan (community leader), Ms. Shoheli Parvin Chabi (community leader), Mr. Parvez Akter Dulal (community leader), Mr. Abu Jaffar Saleh (journalist) and Ms. Suraiya Akter (survivor) In the year 2014 the jury board selected the champions were – Mr. Advocate Md. Shahjahan Mia, Ms. Shoheli Parvin Chabi and Mr. Zakir Hossain Miraz for their exclusive contributions in preventing domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment and gender base violence. Each winner was awarded with a Cheque of Tk. 15,000, a crest and a uttari. Advocate Mr. Dhirenra Debonath Sambhu, Member of Parliament (Barguna-1) was chief guest of the champion award giving ceremony at RDF conference hall at Barguna. Finally feelings were taken from the winners which were like – Advocate Mr. Shajahan Mia expressed, “What I did, I did it not for benefit of me. I think it is ethical, as a man, to do something for the humanity.” Ms. Shoheli Parvin, “As a female I have still to struggle to go ahead. It is my great achievement if I can do something for the community in course of my life.” Mr. Zakir Hossain Miraz, “It’s a moral accountability to everyone as a human being he/she has to proceed to solve social problems.” Champion Selection in 2015 The second round champions were selected on 19 January 2015. All the processes were maintained like earlier. Four categories were considered while inviting application for selecting champions. The categories were – Teachers, Journalists, Human Rights Activist and Community Leaders for their contribution in protecting human rights. A jury board was formed with Upazila Nirbahi Officer – Mr. Golam Mohammad Bhuyan, District Women Affairs Officer – Ms. Mehrun Nahar Munni, Mr. Hasanur Rahman Jhantu – President, Barguna Press Club and Mr. Monir Hossain Kamal – Station Manager, Lokobetar, Barguna. In addition Mr. Shahabuddin Panna – ED, NSS, Mr. Shaharukh Sohel – PM, Plan International Bangladesh, Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad – RPM, Plan International Bangladesh and Mr. Iftekhar Azad Manna – Area Coordinator BNWLA were in the selection team.

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Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh Maintaining all the formalities the jury board selected two champions for 2015 – i) Human Rights Activist Mr. Md. Shamsuddin Khan for his 29 years contributions in protecting human rights and ii) Teacher Mr. Abdul Kuddus Miah for preventing child marriages at community level. Dr. Mizanur Rahman – Chairman of Human Rights Commission gave away the award between the two winers at RDF conference room on 5 March 2015.

F- Indicator:# of public advocacy campaigns on human rights supported by USG (2.1.4-5) Local and national level advocacy meetings Local level advocacy meeting: During the project period NSS completed 12 advocacy meetings at union level with the participation of teacher, up representatives, local elites, religious leaders and child representatives. The main objectives of the meetings were to aware the community representatives on domestic violence prevention, child marriage, sexual harassment, share evidence based data on domestic violence and gender base violence. Total 399 participants including 312 male and 87 female participated in the meeting. Each meeting was arranged at union parishad meeting rooms. Before arranging advocacy meeting at union FGDs were done to identify the situation and to study the situation of domestic violence, sexual harassment and gender base violence at community. Based on the information gathered from FGDs reports were prepared to share with the participants in the advocacy meetings. In spite of having there laws and rules for preventing gender base violence and sexual harassment people were not aware about those. The root causes of sexual harassments were identified as – miss use of media, no local level law, want of freedom to protest against this violence. The union level stakeholders have been capacitated and they are preventing child marriage, domestic violence and they are mediating local level cases. The main objectives of the meetings were – i) to sensitize people to complete marriages through kazis and imams and not in traditional way, ii) to motivate to marriages with registration, iii) to build consensus for preventing child marriage, iv) to create more attention and responsibilities to prevent child marriage, v) to strengthen checking system to prevent issuing fake birth registration certificates. Table 4: Local and national level advocacy meetings Ref: #

Local Level 01 02 03

# of event

Activity Descriptions

# of Participants Male

Female

Total

Union level advocacy meeting Facilitating Upazila Violence Against Women and Children Committee Advocacy meeting at divisional level

312

399

110

156

Total:

447

147

594

F5-B: Facilitating the UVAWC monthly meetings During the period total 7 UVAWC meetings were held. In the year 2015 total 2 meetings and in the year 2016 5 meetings were held. The UNO, Barguna sadar upazila chaired the meetings. Amongst the other participants there were members of upazila violence against women and children committee and Page 12 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh members of upazila human rights advocacy forum. The main objective of the meetings were to share about the status of domestic violence, sexual harassment, child marriage and taking action to raise fund for survivors’ support, to expedite legal aid support and build a solidarity to prevent violence against women and children. During July-September 2016 total 25 reported and 29 unreported cases of domestic violence were presented. The cases were from – Badarkhlai, Gourichanna, Fuljhuri, Kewrabunia, Aylapatakata, Dhalua, Barguna Sadar, M. Baliatoli and Naltona. The average age of these survivors were between 17 lowest to 32 years highest. The nature of violence was – physical torture, mental torture and financial torture. The reasons of violence were identified – discordance (difference of opinion), dowry, drug addiction, affairs (illicit relationship), second marriage (or polygamy), divorce, suspicion and maintenance (up keep). During April-June 2016 total 30 reported and 29 un-reported cases were presented. The reasons of torture were – discordance (difference of opinion), dowry, drug addiction, affairs (illicit relationship), second marriage (or polygamy), divorce, suspicion and maintenance (up keep).

COMPONENT 2: CAPACITY BUILDING One of the important components of PHR program is capacity building of different stakeholders including project staffs.

Indicator 1.2.1: Level of knowledge of the stakeholders on domestic violence. Table 5: Capacity building training participants Ref #

1.2.A 1.2.1.A

1.2.1.B 1.2.1.B 1.2.1.C 1.2.1.C 1.2.1.D

Training Description

# of Training

# of Participants Male

Female

Total

316

137

Discussion sessions with judges 3-day TOT for selected GOB master trainers on operational guidelines and handbook 2-day long training on operation guidelines and handbooks for upazila WAOs Training for Marriage Registers (Hindu & Muslim) # of journalists trained on investigative gender-sensitive reporting Training for Local Religious Leader (Imam & Purohit) Training for upazila and union legal aid committee members

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Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Ref #

1.2.1.E 1.2.1.E 1.2.1.F 1.2.1.F 1.2.1.G 1.2.1.H 1.2.1.H

Training Description

# of Training

# of Participants Male

Female

Total

181

252

# TOT of master trainers for ITA Social worker training (Paralegal/gender training / case management training) UP and partner training on conducting and documenting meetings Training for Union VAWC Committee members/SPG # of police trained (refresher) # of salish members trained in legal literacy Discussion Workshop with DWA & UWAO's (VAW cell / Committee)Salish Training

1.2.1.I

Refresher training for youth

1.2.1.J

Training for sexual harassment prevention committees

126

164

290

3.1.2.C

# of social workers trained on psychosocial counseling

3.1.2.D 3.2.2.A

# of sub-SPG trained in psychosocial counseling Training for WAOs on psychosocial counseling

4.1.E

# of youth received training

196

285

4.2.C New

TOT for school and madrasa teachers Training for Upazila NARI Forum Union parishad MALE members trained on VAWCC Basic Training on Gender and Legal Issues for Community radio Officials Training for Village Police

8 2

215 0

42 54

257 54

168

510

306

816

New New

Total:

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Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

COMPONENT 4: SURVIVOR SERVICES One of the important components of PHR program is survivors support. The main objective of the component is to increase support for survivor services of domestic violence and other human rights abuses, including, but not limited to, physical and mental health education, and vocational training. Total 864 survivors were linked with different intuitions for support. During the period 823 survivors were linked with VGF and 40 survivors with VGD at different Union Parishad. One of the survivors was provided one sewing machine by NSS. She is depending on this machine for her livelihood. It is apparent that small contribution can do great change. A fund has been created with support of upazila human rights advocacy forum to support the survivors.

Table 21: # of survivor enrolled with PHR Type of Survivor Domestic Violence Dowry Early Marriage Trafficking Sexual Harassment Rape Other (specify) Total:

# of survivors Male Female 1296 159 171 1 36 3 01 36 01 1702

IR 3: Increased Support Services to HR Abuse Survivors Indicator 3.1: # of upazila network referral systems in place Under the PHR Program NSS has developed a good referral mechanism at Barguna. Our Social Workers play vital role to functioning the system effectively. During the project period NSS provided referral to 938 persons at Barguna Sadar Upazila. Total 75 victims were provided medical support during the project period. Total 823 were linked with VGF, 40 persons VGD and 1 survivor received sewing machine from NSS. The referral system introduced under PHR program is very much effective for ensuring rights of victims and survivors. The system also ensured social accountability of duty bearers in some extent.

Sub-IR 3.1: Strengthened Network of Support Service CSOs and NGOs Indicator 3.1.1: Social Protection Groups (SPGs) that are operational at the union level In order to engaging community people to protect human rights as well as to play pioneer role as change makers 10 Social Protection Groups (SPGs) were formed at 10 unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila. Each union chairman is the president of the group. In addition, there is also Ward SPG at every word of the union. The total 90 Ward SPGs also exist at Barguna Sadar Upazila. The Ward member of the respective Ward is the president of Ward SPG. This intervention is very much effective at community level. Most of the successes of the PHR program the credit deserve SPGs. With their rigorous participation and ownership the program has been successful. Even after the phase out of the PHR program these capacitated groups will play triggering role to prevent child marriage, domestic violence and other gender base violence in community level. A good rapport and bridge has been built with these groups between GOs and NGOs. Page 15 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Table 22: SPG meeting and conference Activities

# of meeting

3.1.1.A: # bi-monthly meetings of SPGs Quarterly planning meeting of SPG Total:

70 30 100

Participants (SPG members) Male Female Total 1063 397 1460 496 175 701 1559 572 2161

3.1.1.A: # of bi-monthly/Quarterly meetings of SPGs During the reporting period During the project period total 70 bi-monthly and 30 quarterly meetings were held with the participation of 1063 male and 397 female and 496male and 175female consecutively. The purpose of the meetings were – a) to sensitize the CPG members about the circular of Ministry of Women and Children Affairs about formation of Violence against Women and Children Committee at Union level, b) finalization of committee and submission of the list to the relevant authority, c) ensuring sustainability of the committee through effectiveness, d) to strengthen the protection mechanism at village level, e) monitoring and evaluation of implemented activities, f) to take effective steps through analyzing the cause violence in their respective areas. Description of the meetings: The meetings were arranged at Union Parishads’ auditorium/conference rooms. The contents of discussions of the meetings were – introduction, welcome speech, presentation of PHR program’s initiatives, importance of union committee for preventing violence against women and children and about the formation of this committee, formation of union committee for preventing violence against women and children (UVAWC) and distribution of their responsibilities, reformation of UVAWC for preventing violence against women and children, reformation of ward committee, open discussion, action plan development and closing the meeting. All the meetings were chaired by UP Chairmen. Other participants were – teachers, religious representatives, child representatives, social workers and NGO representatives. The project social workers as well as legal councilors presented the situation of domestic violence and other human rights related issues in the meetings. They also shared success and challenge to implement the program activities. The achievements of the meetings were – i) the number of participants have increased in the courtyard meetings, ii) if any child marriage incident happens, the SPG members notify it to the UNO through using help line number 10921, iii) total 201nubers of domestic violence have been mediated by Ward SPG members at local level, iv) Ward SPG members have prevented 24 child marriages, v) Ward SPG members have referred 33 complains to legal councilors, vi) total 10 Social Workers of PHR Program have been integrated in the committee as NGO representatives, vii) total 43 Union CPG members have been integrated in Union Violence against Women and Children (UVAWC), viii) the Union Kazis (Marriage Registrars) are given commitment not to conduct any marriage without valid birth registration,

Page 16 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh ix) a separate budget allocations for women and children victims BDT. 385 thousand in 20162017 fiscal year , x) UP members and secretaries are carrying their respective duties responsibilities and they are submitting monthly reports

Indicator 3.1.2: Social workers trained on Psychosocial Counseling, DV and HR [Give an introduction on capacity building of psychosocial counselors. How the trained social workers contribute to the program?]

Table 23: Social worker training and meeting Activities 3.1.2.A: # of annual meetings with social workers at upazila level 3.1.2.B: # of monthly meetings with social workers

Page 17 of 34

Date of events

Male

Participants (SW) Female Total

16/06/2015

27/04/2014

27/05/2014

24/06/2014

23/07/2014

30/08/2014

22/09/2014

30/10/2014

26/11/2014

10/12/2014

23/12/2014

27/01/2015

21/02/2015

26/02/2015

25/03/2015

21/04/2015

01/06/2015

23/06/2015

29/07/2015

30/08/2015

22/09/2015

29/10/2015

30/11/2015

22/12/2015

30/01/2016

25/02/2016

23/03/2016

23/04/2016

29/05/2016

22/06/2016

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Activities

3.1.2.C: # of SW trained on counseling

Date of events

Participants (SW) Male Female Total

27/07/2016

30/08/2016

22/09/2016

30/10/2016

23/11/2016

15/12/2016

11 /11 2014

7-9 Sept. 2015

06/12/2015

27-29 Feb. 2016

19-21 Sept. 2016

3.1.2.D: # of sub-SPG (women members) trained in psychosocial counseling

3.1.2.B: # of monthly meetings with social workers Social Workers are the front line staff of PHR Program. They closely work with the community people. All the community level activities were implemented by them. Obviously they are the key persons to aware community people on human rights issues. They collected evidence base data from the community by house to house visit, communicate the victims and survivors, they provided counseling to the victims and survivors, they communicate the Ward SPG for referral of victims. Sometimes they have to play the role of paralegal.

3.1.2.C: # of social workers trained on psychosocial counseling In order to build capacity of social workers and to build their facilitation skill on psychosocial counseling, domestic violence and paralegal orientation sessions were held. During July-September 2015 one training was held with the participation of 20 social workers. Before starting the session preevaluation was done on the psychosocial counseling and paralegal. They scored 78.5% and 65.25% respectively. At the end of the session final evaluation was done and it was found that the scoring of psychosocial counseling and paralegal were 96% and 91.25%. A 1 day’s Social Worker’s training on Gender was held at RDF Training Centre, Barguna on 19 September 2016 with 19 participants. Pre and post assessments were done. The contents of the training were – i) expectation of the participants, ii) our concept on gender, iii) day to day works of male and female and their role, iv) process of socialization, v) gender concept, vi) gender related terminology – gender equality, gender equity, gender discrimination, gender mainstreaming and empowerment, vi) Plan’s gender policy and activities, vii) Plan’s Child Protection Policy, viii) Our roles in gender aspect. The training was facilitated by Ms. Hafiza Akter, Deputy Project Coordinator, Ms. Afia Sultana, Project Officer, Ms. Jasmin Akter, Duli Akter, Rubina, DPM-NSS. Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad Regional Project Manager inaugurated the session. Before starting the training pre assessment was done and the scoring was 12.36%. After the completion of the training the post assessment was done and the score was 13.78%. Page 18 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh On 20-21 September 2016 a 2days’ refreshers training on paralegal was held with 19 Social Workers. The objective of the training was – a) to re-discuss on an ideal mediation process, b) to re-discuss about the laws relating to women and child protection, and c) more capacity to provide counseling to victimized women and children as a paralegal. The major contents of the sessions were – a. mediation system and women friendly mediation, b. Muslim Family Law 1961, c. Hindu Family Law, d. Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2010 and Rule 2013, e. Circular of the High Court on sexual harassment in educational institutions and work place, f. Dowry Prevention Act 1980, Child Marriage Restraint Act 1929, Acid Throwing Prevention Act 2002, Women and Children Repression Act 2000 (amended 2003) and Legal Aid Support Act 2000 and f. Roles and responsibilities of Social Workers. Md. Mojahidul Islam, Legal Service Coordinators, Plan International Bangladesh was the key facilitator. Before starting the training pre assessment was done and the scoring was 15.15%. After the completion of the training the post assessment was done and the score was 18.78%. Through these trainings the participants have been aware about the differentiation between the works of male and female, the process of socialization, gender related jargons – gender equality, gender equity, gender discrimination, gender mainstreaming, Plan’s Gender Policy and Plan’s Child Protection Policy. In addition they have been aware about marriage, denmohar (dower paid to bride on behalf of groom), polygamy, separation, maintenance, guardianship, heir, hindu family law, domestic violence (prevention and protection) act 2010 and rule 2013, the High Court’s Circular regarding sexual harassment at educational institutions and work places, dowry prevention law 1980, child marriage restraint act 1929, acid prevention act 2002, women and children repression act 2000 (amended 2003) and legal aid support law 2000.

Sub-IR 3.2: Increase Access of Victims of HR and DV to Support Services Indicator 3.2.1: # of survivors who are referred for shelter, medical, livelihood, and other services Total 942 survivors were given referral support which includes 75 medical services through on Step Crisis Center at Barguna Sadar Hospital during the project period. Poor and vulnerable survivors were provided with medical, transport and food costs supports. Also 867 survivors have been linked with social safety net which includes 823 for Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF), 40 survivors for Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) and 1 survivor received sewing machine from NSS. These efforts have brought confidence of these survivors. UP representatives, government officials, journalists, social workers, elite persons are very much positive to stand for supporting survivors.

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Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Table 25: Survivor refer to services Union Badarkhali Gourichanna Fuljhuri Kewrabunia Aylapatakata Bourirchar Dhalua Barguna Sadar M. Baliatali Naltona Total:

Medical 4 8 1 11 11 6 8 17 9 0 75

Name of Services Livelihood Skill Training 69 0 80 0 74 0 132 0 89 0 57 0 68 0 87 0 129 0 82 0 867 0

Total

Shelter 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

73 88 75 143 100 63 76 104 138 82 942

Indicator 3.2.2: # of psychosocial counseling services received Table 26: psychosocial counseling services to survivors PHR Program Area (Union) 10 Unions of Barguna Total

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# of survivors Male Female 34 911 34 911

# of counseling services 3612 3612

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

COMPONENT 5: MASS AWARENESS AND EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN IR 4: Public Awareness on HR Issues Improved Indicator 4.1: # of mass awareness events led by SPGs, NGOs, CSOs and other partners with PHR support 4.1.B: # of courtyard meetings Purpose-The courtyard meetings one of the effective activities for increasing awareness at community level on preventing domestic violence, child marriage, dowry, sexual harassment and gender related other issues. Different types of courtyard meetings were held at community level during the project life time. The courtyard meetings were â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a) Courtyard meeting for women: in these meetings male and female participants received discussions sessions. Total 2361 meetings were held at 10 unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila with the participation of 81,959 which constitutes 32,349 male and 49,610; b) Courtyard meeting for men: in these meetings only male participants attended. During the period total 389 meetings were held at 10 unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila with the participation of 12,159 mal;. c) Courtyard meeting for adolescents: in these meetings total 16,208 adolescents (7114 boys and 9094 girls) participated in 451 meetings at 10 unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila during the project period; d) Courtyard meeting for couples: total 140 meetings were held at 10 Unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila with the participation of 1,632 couples. The people have been aware about social protection group and their roles in the community, domestic violence, child marriage and its impact, causes of domestic violence, laws regarding domestic violence (prevention and protection), marriage, denmohar, dowry and its bad effect, what is sexual harassment and how to prevent sexual harassment, legal aid support, how to get survivors support, role of union parishad, social safety net support, how to restrain child marriage, where to inform to stop child marriage etc.

Table 28: Courtyard meeting (for Women) Union

# of events

Badarkhali Gourichanna Fuljhuri Kewrabunia Aylapatakata Bourirchar Dhalua Barguna Sadar M. Baliatali Naltona Total:

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236 236 236 236 237 236 236 236 236 236 2,361

Male 3140 3004 3483 3429 3142 3345 3202 3766 3009 2829 32,349

# Participants Female 4699 4799 5151 4785 5602 5359 4807 5290 4788 4330 49,610

Total 7839 7803 8634 8214 8744 8704 8009 9056 7797 7159 81,959

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

Table 29: Courtyard meeting (for Men) Union

# of events

At 10 Unions Total:

389 389

# Participants Male Female Total 12,159 12,159 12,159 12,159

Table 30: Courtyard meeting (for Adolescent) Union

# of events

At 10 Unions Total:

451 451

Male 7,114 7,114

# Participants Female Total 9,094 16,208 9,094 16,208

Table 31: Courtyard meeting (for Couples) Union

# of events

At 10 Unions Total:

140 140

# Participants Male Female Total 1,632 1,632 3,264 1,632 1,632 3,264

4.1.C: # of door step PA campaign (9 unions in Barguna) Under the campaign 270 youth group members fixed 100,000 stickers on child marriage, domestic violence and sexual harassment at 73,783 spots including households, schools, madrasas, colleges, clubs and different associations at Barguna Upazila in 10 unions. As a result 229108 people have been aware.

4.1.D: # of youth groups engaged Under PHR Program, with the youth members of Ward SPG union level, youth groups were formed at 10 unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila. Youth groups are working as changing agents at urban and union level to aware community people on domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment, dowry and other human rights violations issues. They are also involved in study circle. During the project period 41times youth groups met in their study circles which are once in a month. In the study circle they study on laws regarding Muslim Family Law (Marriage, Endowment Denmohar, Maintenace), Anti Tobacco Law, Child Marriage Restraint Act, Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act 2010, Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Maintenance Act 2013, Pornography Control Act 2012, CEDAW, Child Rights, Gender etc. They are very much enthusiastic to participate in social changing issues. During the period 270 youth group members spontaneously participated in sticker campaign. It was possible to aware 222,108 people of Barguna on child marriage, dowry, domestic violence and sexual harassment through sticker campaign by the youth groups. They fixed 100,000 stickers at 73,783 spots including households, schools, madrasas, colleges, clubs and different associations at Barguna. They have also organized to celebrate National Legal Aid Day 2015, organized sports program for One Billion Rising, organized street drama, organized awareness raising magazine program at Lokobetar, Barguna, they supported Page 22 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh PHR program to celebrate International Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, 16 Days Campaign for Elimination of Violence against Women etc. The youth group members are committed to take any challenge against child marriage, sexual harassment, domestic violence and other gender related issues. These groups are very much active in the area context. If they are followed up and they are given assignments they can do a lot to change the society. NSS has good experience to involve youth groups in different issues for social change. As a right base organization NSS is seeking another project or program to continue the practice further.

Table 32: Youth groups engaged Upazila Barguna Sadar

Union Municipality At 9 Unions Municipality

Total: Gourichanna Kewrabunia Municipality

Municipality

OBR Municipality

Union Municipality

Municipality

Union-Municipality

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Date 9 May 2015 28 May 2015 9-22 June 2015 27 July 2015 10 August 2015 20 September 2015 28 July 2015 29 July 2015 19 October 2015 5 November 2015 7 December 2015 18 January 2016 4 February 2016 10 March 2016 14 February 2016 25 April 2016 22 May 2016 5 June 2016 18 April 2016 22 May 2016 24 July 2016 5 August 2016 1 September 2016 31 August 2016 27 October 2016 22 November 2016 8 December 2016 10 December 2016

# of youth group members Male Female Total 0 16 16 0 13 13 79 157 236 0 17 17 0 17 17 0 20 20 9 16 25 8 17 25 0 21 21 0 12 12 0 18 18 0

0 0 30 8 5 7 4 74 7 7 6 7 6 6 5 10 278

14 20 250 9 3 4 6 137 9 8 7 10 5 6 5 12 846

14 20 280 17 3 11 10 211 16 15 13 17 11 12 10 22 1119

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh

4.1.E: # of youth received training Table 33: Youth received training Place of the training

Date of training

RDF Training Center, Barguna

11-13 August 2015 11-13 August 2015 16-18 August 2015 16-18 August 2015 19-21 August 2015 19-21 August 2015 22-24 August 2015 22-24 August 2015 25-27 August 2015 25-27 August 2015

Total:

Boys 9 9 9 9 9 0 9 8 10 10 82

Participants (youth) Girls Total 18 27 18 27 18 27 18 27 18 27 24 24 18 27 18 26 17 27 19 29 186 268

4.1.DC: Day celebrations through public events at local and national level Table 36: Day celebrations Ref: #

# of event

Activity Descriptions

Participants Male

Female

Total

4.1.DC1

25th November: International Day on Elimination of Violence Against Women

5724

3878

9602

4.1.DC2

16-Day Campaign on Violence against Women

4901

2459

7360

4.1.DC3

10th December: International Human Rights Day

125

372

497

4.1.DC4

28th April: National Legal Aid Day

925

175

1100

510

541

1051

29th September: National Child Marriage

4.1.DC5 Prevention Day

Total:

12185

7425

19610

4.1.DC1: 25th November: International Day on Elimination of Violence Against Women Different types of activities were taken under PHR program at Barguna on the occasion of 16 days campaign during 24th November â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 December 2013. The 16 days campaign was inaugurated by Mr. Monir Hossain Kamal, President-Barguna Press Club at Barguna Press Club on 24th November 2013 evening. Mr. Shahabuddin Panna, Executive Director-NSS delivered the welcome speech. In his speech Mr. Shahabuddin Panna shared about the activities to observe 16 days campaign. The activities were â&#x20AC;&#x201C; i) Press briefing and inauguration, ii) Human Chain and Discussion on International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women, iii) Begum Rokeya Dibosh (9th December), iv) World Human Rights Day celebration, v) Award giving to human rights activists at union and urban level, vi) Talk show at Community Radio (FM 99.2) on World Hunan Rights Day, vii) Cultural event Page 24 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh and issue base drama for awareness raising at community level and viii) Gender sensitive sports at school level for preventing gender base violence. Total 41 persons including 36 male and 5 female (including journalist, teachers, NGO representatives, representatives of local administration and law enforcing, rover scouts, women leaders and local government representatives) were present in the inaugural session of the 16 days campaigns. In addition, Mr. Shaharukh Sohel, Project Manager, Plan International Bangladesh, Mr. Namus Sadat, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, Plan International Bangladesh and Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, Regional Project Manager who guided all the programs was present in the inaugural meeting. On 25th November 2013 based on the theme “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence against Women” a Human Chain and Discussion done at Barguna Press Club complex with the participation of 178 people (with 85 male 93 female) including journalists, teachers, parents, human rights activists, social workers NGO representatives, rover scouts, women leaders and local government representatives. A signature campaign was done and 350 people (male and female) from all walks put their signature to show their solidarity to eliminate violence against women. The people of all walks of life will be aware about their roles and responsibilities to prevention domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment and dowry. On 25th November 2014 based on the theme “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the world” a launching meeting was held at Barguna Press Club on 24th November 2014 evening. In this meeting a concept note was presented before the audience on the 16 Days Activism. Mr. Shahabuddin Panna, Executive Director-NSS read out the concept paper on the objective of the campaign programs. The session was moderated by Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, RPM Plan International Bangladesh. Amongst the participants there were journalists, NGO representatives, women leaders, PHR Champions, Upazila Human Rights Advocacy Forum members and civil society representatives. The focusing issues were – role of local government in preventing child marriage, sexual harassment and violence against women. Total participants were 65 including 49 male and 16 female. In addition organization based women support was presented. The organizations were – District Women Affairs Department, Barguna, Bangladesh Mohila Parishad, Barguna, Farialara Foundation, Annesha, BNWLA, NSS and BCFNF. Discussion meeting was held with cultural show. The total participants in this event were 140 (including 31male and 109 female). People suggested arranging these sorts of program at remote rural areas.

The major achievement from the program were – the collaborative efforts of govt. and non govt. organization towards preventing violence against women have been strengthen, awareness has been increased about the bad impact of child marriage and a network has been developed amongst the service providing institutions. On 25th November 2015 at 10:00 AM based on the theme “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Make Education Safe for All” a human chain was arranged in front of Barguna Press Club with the participation of 159 (including 84 male and 75 female) from different sectors. Ms. Page 25 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh Meherunnahar Munni, District Women Affairs Officer, Barguna inaugurated the human chain and 16 days activism. Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, RPM, Plan international Bangladesh delivered the welcome speech. The main objectives of the campaign were – i) to reduce all sorts of discriminations in higher education of women and their dropout, ii) to take initiative to prevent child marriage, sexual harassment and domestic violence by local government, iii) to aware students at schools and college level on preventing sexual harassment and child marriage, iv) to inspire to implement all sorts rules and laws regarding violence against women and v) to raise collaborative voice by people of all level against women’s violence. On 25th November 2016 based on the theme ‘Orange the World: Raise Money to End Violence against Women and Girls’. To celebrate the activism the PHR program Barguna arranged women gathering, bou shashri mela (daughter-in-law and mother-in-law fair), discussion meeting, cultural event and award giving ceremony at East Charakgachia Govt. Primary School premises from 9:004:30 clock in collaboration with Bangladesh Jatiyo Mahila Sangstha, Barguna. The chief guest was Mr.Abu Hena Mostafa Kemal, Chairman Dhalua Union Parishad. The program was chaired by Mr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Head Master, East Charakgachia Govt. Primary School. In addition other guests were Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, RPM, Plan International Bangladesh, Ms. Hosneara Champa, Chairman, Jatiyo Mohila Sangstha, Barguna, Ms. Kazal Rani Das, ED-Shuktara, Barguna as well as UP members and teachers. In the fair the events were – ball throwing in the bucket, buchi game, pillow fighting, tag of war, pot breaking and sensitize ludu games. At the end of discussion meeting a issue based cultural show was presented by the folk singer group of Barguna. Total 265 people (including 55 male and 210 female) participated in the events. The remotest women and adolescent girls got privilege of enjoying issue base cultural events, sports and discussions on women and gender empowerment related issue. Total 103 pairs of daughters-in-law and mothers-in-law were aware about their roles including decision making power in their family.

4.1.DC2: 16-Day Campaign on Violence against Women 16 Day Campaign 2013 discussion meeting with parents and guardians was held at Lakurtala Sonar Bangla Secondary School play ground with the participation of 150 including 80 male and 70 female. The topics of discussions were – child marriage and its affect, domestic violence, dowry and to present the PHR program activities to all. The event was chaired by Abbas Uddin Mollah, ChairmanSchool Management Committee. The discussants were Most. Setara Begum (F)-Parent/guardian, Md. Abdul Jalil Hawlader-Parent/guardian, Most. Shamsunnahar (F), Assistant Head Master- Lakurtala Sonar Bangla Secondary School, Md. Keramat Ali, donor of land and SMC member, and Mr. Tapan Kumar Mistri, Head Master- Lakurtala Sonar Bangla Secondary School. The discussants appreciated the initiatives of Plan International Bangladesh. The Head Master admitted, “Our children have been capacited through such programs of Plan International Bangladesh and we have come to know about the laws regarding gender base violence”. 16 Day Campaign 2014 a signature campaign was arranged at Barguna where people of all corners including teachers, students, social workers, NGO representatives, women leaders, cultural activists, journalists, lawyers and govt. officials participated in the campaign and put their signature to show their solidarity to prevent all sorts violence against women. Total 500 people (250 male and 250 Page 26 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh female) signed on panaflex. Under this campaign program video show “Lasimaner Jibon” on child marriage and dowry was presented at different spots on different dates on 1st December 2014 at Sujar Khaghat, on 2nd December 2014 at Potkakhali Meem Abasan, - on 3rd December 2014 at Sonbunia Abasan and on 4 December 2014 at Krok, Barguna. A drama titled “Joyjatra” on sexual harassment was presented in the evening. Total 3150 people including 1,500 male and 1,650female enjoyed the video presentations. In addition to aware mass people publicity and leaflet distribution were done at different places of 10 unions and municipality of Barguna Sadar Upazila on 29th November 2014 at Badarkhali and Gouricahnna unions, on 1st December 2014 at Fuljhuri and Kewrabunia unions, on 3rd December 2014 at Aylapatakata and Bourirchar unions, on 5th December 2014 at Dhalua, Barguna Sadar and Municipality and on 6th December 2014 at M. Baliatoli and Naltona unions. Total 9,000 people including 5,500 male and 3,500 female participated in the campaign. 16 Day Campaign 2015 based on the theme “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Make Education Safe for All” the 16 days campaign was done through publicity, leaflet distribution, issue base song presentation and campaign with decorated caravan at 10 unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila. The publicity places were – Meem Abasan, Fuljhuri Bazar, Boikalin Bazar, Kadamtala Bazar, Purakata Ferryghat and Chalitatoli Bazar. Total 6,500 people (4,500 male and 2,000 female) have been aware about the information were to communicate for preventing child marriage, domestic violence and violence against women. The recommendation came from the audience to display street drama to aware people. 16 Day Campaign 2016 based on the theme ‘Orange the World: Raise Money to End Violence against Women and Girls’. The 16 days campaign was done with collaboration Lokobetar (99.2), Barguna. In order to increase participation of madrasa and schools girls, NSS with the support of Plan International Bangladesh arranged debate competition with the girl students of 20 secondary schools and 21 madrasas of 10 unions of Barguna Sadar Upazila. The subject of the debate was – “It is child marriage which is the barrier of girl child’s career building” (favor and disfavor). The representatives of Lokobetar and NSS were the judges of the debate. Total 123 girl students from madrasas participated in the debate. The champions were 30 students, runners up 30 students and 10 students were top speakers. At Upazila level another debate contest was done on 2nd December 2016 at Lokobetar. Total 27 participants attended the debate. The subject of the debate was the same. The Champion was Amtali Adarsaw Madhamik Bhidaloy, Barguna Sadar, Barguna and the Runners up was Roadpara Shahid Smriti Madhamik Bhidaloy, Fuljhuri Union, Barguna. The top speaker was Most.Ayesha Siddika Meem, Amtali Adarshaw Madhamik Bhidaloy. The students have become very much confident than before and their capacity of expression as well as faculty of speech have increased.

9th December Begum Rokeya Day On 9 December 2013 on the occasion of Begum Rokeya Day a discussion meeting ion the ideal of Begum Rokeya was held at Barguna Govt. Women College Auditorium. The chief guest of the meeting was Mr. Luthfar Rahman, general secretary, teachers association. Mr. Nurul Alam, Asst. Professor, Department of Political Science, Barguna Govt. College. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Page 27 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh Marirul Islam, Lecturer, Islamic History, Barguna Govt. College. Students of different classes also participated in discussion. Taking the inspiration of Begum Rokeya they finally committed to break the discrimination of women empowerment. The meeting was moderated by Mr. Shinur Rahman, Deputy Project Coordinator, PHR, Plan International Bangladesh and Mr. Md. Miraz Deputy Project Officer, PHR, NSS. Total participants were 50 which constituted 15 male and 35 female. On 9 December 2014 with joint initiative of District Women Affairs Department and Youth groups of PHR program Begum Rokeya Day 2014 was celebrated at District Shilpakala Academy, Barguna. The activities included to observe the day were – discussion on Begum Rokeya’s life and her contributions and award giving to the successful women. Mr. Mir Zahirul Haque, Deputy Commissioner, Barguna was the chief guest. Ms. Meherunnahar Munni, District Women Affairs Officer chaired the session. Amongst the other guests were – Mr. Abdus Salam, Vice Principal, Barguna Govt. College, Mr. Abdul Alim Himu, President, Barguna Press Club, Ms. Luthfunnahar, Lecturer (Bengali) and Advisor, Youth Group, Ms. Hasina Akter Head Teacher, Barguna Govt. High School, Mr. Abdur Rashid, District Commander of Freedom Fighter and Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, RPM, Plan International Bangladesh. Other participants were – govt. officials, teachers, guardians, child representatives, students and NGO representatives comprising 66 (including 24 male and 42 female). On 9 December 2015 with joint collaboration of District Women Affairs Department and Youth groups of PHR program and other NGOs Begum Rokeya day was observed at District Shilpakala Academy, Barguna. To celebrate the day the activities taken were – rally, discussion, cultural event, autobiography of the Joyitas and crest and certificate of appreciation distribution. Mr. Mir Zahirul Haque was the chief guest. Other special guests were Mr. Abbas Hossain Mantu, Upzila Chairman, Barguna Sadar, Mr. Bijoy Basahk, PPM, Police Super, Barguna, Mr. Abdur Rashid Mia, Freedom Fighter, Ms. Hasina Begum, Head Teacher, Barguna Govt. High School, Ms. Hosne Ara Champa, Chairman Jatiya Mahila Sangstha, Barguna and Mr. Hasanur Rahman Jhantu, President, Barguna Press Club. Other participants were – govt. officials, teachers, guardians, child representatives, students and NGO representatives comprising 350 (including 150 male and 200 female).

4.1.DC3: 10th December: International Human Rights Day 10 December 2013 based on the theme “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence against Women” International Human Rights Day was celebrated on 10 December 2013 at RDF Convention Hall, Barguna. The program included – discussion meeting, cultural show drama award giving. The chief guest of the sessions was Mr. Mohammad Ali, ADC (General), Barguna. Mr. Anwar Hossain Monwar, Freedom Fighter chaired the sessions. Other special guests were – Mr. Shahajhan Mia, Mayor Barguna Municipality, Mr. Monir Hossain Kamal, President, Barguna Press Club, Mr.Motaleb Mridha, Chairman, NGO Forum, Barguna, Mr. Shaharukh Sohel, Project Manager, Plan International Bangladesh. The session was moderated by Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, Project Coordinator, PHR program, Plan International Bangladesh. At end of the 20 human rights activists were awarded for their contribution to prevent domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment and dowry. The Youth Group presented a cultural show. Govt. officials, teachers, child representatives, NGO workers, cultural activists, lawyer and journalists participated in the program. Page 28 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh 10 December 2014 based on the theme “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the world” International Human Rights Day was celebrated on 10 December 2014 at District Shilpakala Academy, Barguna. The program included – discussion meeting, drawing contest, sensitized ludu games, cultural show drama and prize giving. The chief guest of the sessions was Mr. Mir Zahirul Haque, Deputy Commissioner, Barguna. Mr. Shahabuddin Panna, Executive Director, NSS chaired the sessions. Other special guests were – Ms. Meherunnahar Munni, District Women Affairs Officer, Barguna, Ms. Luthfunnahar, Lecturer (Bengali) and Advisor Youth Group, Barguna Govt. Women College, Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad, RPM, Plan International Bangladesh and Mr. Saifuddin Shaheen, Asst. Head Teacher, Gagan Memorial Secondary School, Barguna. End of the events the chief guest as well as special guests distributed the prizes amongst the winners of picture drawings and ludu games players. Total participants comprising govt. officials, teachers, child representatives, NGO workers, cultural activists, lawyer and journalists were 237 (including 107 male and 130 female). 10 December 2015 based on the theme ‘Orange the World: Raise Money to End Violence against Women and Girls’ International Human Rights Day was celebrated on 10 December 2015 at Bangabandhu Smriti Complex, Barguna. The program included – national anthem reciting and raising national flag, opening session, rally, discussion meeting, video presentation, display of youth groups, cultural show and drama. The chief guest of the sessions was Mr. Mir Zahirul Haque, Deputy Commissioner, Barguna. Mr. Shahabuddin Panna, Executive Director, NSS chaired the sessions. Other special guests were – Ms. Meherunnahar Munni, District Women Affairs Officer, Barguna, Mr. Manirul Islam, Chief Advisor Youth Group, Barguna Govt. Women College, Mr. Md. Abbas Hossain Mantu, Upazila Chairman, Barguna, Mr. Hasanur Rahman Jhantu, President, Barguna Press Club and Mr. Monir Hossain Kamal, Station Manager, Lokobetar, Barguna. The total participants were 347 (including 125 male and 222 female) consisting govt. officials, teachers, child representatives, NGO workers, cultural activists, lawyer and journalists. The caption of the drama was “Dey Chut” focusing on preventing domestic violence, child marriage, dowry, sexual harassment and what do. 10 December 2016 International Human Rights Day was celebrated on 10 December 2016 at RDF Convention Hall, Barguna. The program included discussion meeting, award giving to PHR Youth Groups and debate. The chief guest of the sessions was Mr. Nuruzzaman, ADC (General), Barguna. Ms. Meherunnahar Munni, District Women Affairs Officer, Barguna chaired the sessions. The events included – welcome speech, presentation of PHR program activities, discussion meeting, speech of special guests, speech of chief guest, thanks giving by the chairperson and award giving. Based on the theme ‘Orange the World: Raise Money to End Violence against Women and Girls’ the discussants highlighted different issues of human rights and its violations. Awards were given to the 10 Youth Groups from unions and 1group from urban, which were formed under PHR program. Total 22 members (12 female and 10 male) were awarded for their contribution preventing domestic violence, child marriage, sexual harassment and violence against women. A debate was held on the caption “Child Marriage is the Barrier of Girl Child’s Career Building.” Students from secondary schools and madrasas 10 unions took part in the debate, jointly arranged by Lokobetar and Barguna Press Club. The winners were awarded by the guests. The total participants were 75 (including 41 male and 34 female).

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4.1.DC4: 28th April: National Legal Aid Day 28 April 2015: In order to celebrate the National Legal Aid Day at Barguna different types of activities like – discussion meeting and rally arranged with the participation of NGO representatives, lawyers, journalists, govt. officials, women leader, social workers and different types of stakeholders. The special guest of the program was Mr. Zahirul Haque, Deputy Commissioner, Barguna. The events were chaired by Mr. Barekuzzaman, Chairman, District Legal Aid Committee and District Session Judge, Barguna. Other guests were Mr. Md. Saiful Islam, Police Super, Barguna, Mr. Narendranath Sardar, Addl. District Session Judge, Mr. Bazlur Rahman, District Judge, Women and Child Tribunal, Barguna, Md. Shaogatul Alam, ADC (General), Barguna, Md. Habibur Rahman, ADM, Barguna, Mr.Md. Nazmul Haque, Legal Aid Officer, Barguna, and Mr. Md. Motaleb Mridha, Chairman, NGO Forum, Barguna. A rally was arranged with wear T shirt on slogan. Starting from court premises the rally passed different important locations of Barguna Sadar. Total 350 people (including 300 male and 50 female) participated in the rally. People from all walks have been aware about the Legal Aid. At 4:30PM a discussion session held at Barguna Bar Association Conference Room, Barguna. Total150 people (including 125 male and 25 female) participated in the session. 28 April 2016: In order to celebrate the National Legal Aid Day at Barguna different types of activities like – discussion meeting and rally arranged with the participation of NGO representatives, lawyers, journalists, govt. officials, women leader, social workers and different types of stakeholders. The events were chaired by Mr. Barekuzzaman, Chairman, District Legal Aid Committee and District Session Judge, Barguna. Other guests were Mr. Nuruzzamal ADC (General), Barguna, Mr. Bijoy Bashak, PPM, Police Super, Barguna, Mr. Dr.Rustom Ali, Civil Surgeon, Barguna, Mr. Abu Taher, Addl. District Session Judge, Mr. Md. Julfikar Ali, District Judge and Women and Child Tribunal, Barguna, Mr. Md. Motaleb Miah, President District Lawyers Association, Barguna A rally was arranged to celebrate the day. Starting from court premises the rally passed different important locations of Barguna Sadar. Total 600 people (including 500 male and 100 female) participated in the rally. People from all walks have been aware about the Legal Aid.

Table 38: Sensitization meetings with school management committees Name of School Number of Schools 56 Number of Madrasas 37 Total:

Union

Date

10 10

July ‘13 to Dec’16 July ‘13 to Dec’16

# of participants Male Female Total 158 791 633 400 7 407 1033 165 1198

4.2.B: Engaging peer educators to reach out to communities and peers 4.2.C: TOT for school and madrasa teachers (# of teachers) During the reporting period 8 batches of TOT for School and Madrasa teachers were provided at RDF Training Centre, Barguna. First time, total 2 batches of TOT were held on 18 and 20th March 2015. The participants were 30 (including 24male and 6 female) in batch 1 and 28 (including 25 male and 3 female) in batch 2 respectively. Page 30 of 34

Protecting Human Rights Cooperative Agreement No. AID-388-A-11-00002 USAID/Bangladesh In May 2015 6 batches of training provided which were â&#x20AC;&#x201C; i) on 5 may 2015 total 29 participants (including 11 male and 18female) on 6 May 2015 total 26 participants (including 11 male and 15 female), on 7 May 2015 total 32 participants (including 14 male and 18 female), on 10 May 2015 total 31 participants (including 11male and 20 female) and on 11 May 2015 total 27 participants (including 11 male and 16 female) respectively received the training.

4.2.D: # of students sensitized on gender, DV and other HR issues (all students of 55 schools and 37 madrasas) Total 31,063 students of 55 schools and 37 madrasas including 14,439 boys and 16,624 girls have been oriented on gender based issues, domestic violence and its reasons, bad effect of child marriage, bad impact of dowry, distinction between the works of girl and boys, sexual harassment, domestic violence protection and prevention law and child marriage restraint law. The reflection of students were like â&#x20AC;&#x201C; i) we have come to learn about the nature of works which can be done by male and female, ii) social discrimination, iii) difference between boys and girls, iv) what should we do or what should we not do, v) what should be the behaviour of elders to younger, vi) cause of violence against women, vii) what are the barriers in the society, viii) what are the limitations of fulfilment of our desires, ix) we can identify our need from the society. These students are playing changing role in their families, society and community to prevent domestic violence, sexual harassment and child marriage. They are very much active to inform the respective department and authority about any incident of child marriage in their locality. They are also playing the role of triggering agents at community level.

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III. LESSONS LEARNED AND CHALLENGES LESSON LEARN •

• •

• • •

• • • •

• •

Madrasa students are very much enthusiastic in social issues if they are given opportunity and oriented on different social issues. Once they were kept behind screen but with the intervention of PHR program they have seen the light of outside world. Imams can contribute a lot prevent child marriage, domestic violence, sexual harassment and other gender base violence in religious discussions at mosque School sessions are very much effective to aware students about sexual harassment, child marriage, domestic violence and they can play triggering role in family, community and society. Though capacity building of community people human rights can be ensured. Women’s decision making power can be ensured though capacity building and awareness raising on different social issues like child marriage, domestic violence, denmohar, marriage registration and gender related issues. Free flow of information at grass root level is very much effective to aware community people. The term “Gender” has become popular to significant numbers of people at community level. Elderly people like mother-in-law, father-in-law and older people of the family are not addressed in most of the cases in NGO activities. They become blockers in preventing child marriage, domestic violence and gender related issue. Opportunity to work in the same platform with administration, local government, religious leaders and NGOs. If letter is issued from the administration it is very much effective to involve more people. If the kazis are trained on the child restraint marriage act they can play a vital role in preventing child marriage. Courtyard meeting has created good information flow to prevent domestic violence, child marriage, marriage, denmohar, violence against women and children and gender discrimination issues amongst the remotest rural women of Barguna Sadar Upazila. Gender sensitive games are effective to aware mass people on gender sensitivity. The Muslim religious leaders especially kazi and imams are very much positive to adopt new things aligned with religious ethics like sexual harassment, child marriage, domestic violence, dowry etc.

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CHALLENGES It was very difficult to work with madras. At the very beginning the madrasa teachers were not agreed to allow NGO activities. There was a curtain between madrasa and school students. In madrasas very few girl students are admitted, so it was very difficult to access them. When we could mobilize the madras teachers though orientation and training they agreed to continue sessions but not with boy students. Finally we could change the curtain to sit together with boys to receive sessions on child marriage, sexual harassment and domestic violence. Muslim religious leaders particularly imams did not agree to attend meeting, orientation and workshop with female participants and facilitators. Barguna is one of the coastal districts of southern part of Bangladesh. Traditionally people are in conservative nature. A significant number of people were not interested in NGO activities. Male participants are not interested to attend courtyard sessions because they were not interested in women empowerment issues like â&#x20AC;&#x201C; preventing domestic violence, child marriage sexual harassment, denmohar etc. Having there no module on Hindu Marriage it was very difficult to train the marriage registrar. Survivors did not agree to provide information and they would compromise with financial transactions. Delay of survivors notice to the opponent.

IV. SUSTAINABILITY PLAN Social Protection Group (SPG) will continue the initiative of further with their learning. Most of the SPG members are the members of Union Violence against Women and Children Committee, UP Sexual Harassment Committee. The School Management Committee and Madrasa Management Committees have been capacited due to involvement with PHR program and they will continue learning and play role to prevent sexual harassment, child marriage and other domestic violence related issues. Being driven by social accountability are the potential persons in the society and they will continue the practice at institutional as well as community level. The youth group will play the role of ambassador to prevent sexual harassment, domestic violence and child marriage. NSS, the implementing organization of PHR program will re-involve these youth groups in different issues. Already the organization has become a partner of Girls Advocacy Alliance (GAA) project with Plan International Bangladesh. The organization is implementing the GAA project in the same working area of PHR program. In addition there are more opportunities to involve the Ward SPGs (90) in the project. A good relationship has been developed with the administration and civil societies. In the meantime Barguna district has been declared as child marriage free district. Already a task force has been formed at Barguna to prevent child marriage. NSS is also a member of this task force and there is good opportunity to align the PHR systems. Page 33 of 34

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V. Management issues The funding system of the PHR program was very nice and effective for implementing the program activities timely. There was no gap of fund disbursement by Plan International Bangladesh. In spite of our delay to submit fund request the fund flow was very regular. We have developed our capacity through implementing PHR program. Staff support was excellent to implement the project successfully. Numerous capacity building trainings to staffs, supported to implement the program activities smartly and successfully. Indeed intensive support from Plan International Country and Regional Office make our interventions easier. We are very much grateful to Regional Project Manger Mr. Gazi Golam Mohammad for his exclusive support to implement the PHR program successfully. The organization has achieved a good reputation and acceptance with the local legislative, local administration, local government institutions, educational institutions, political leaders, local elite, civil society organizations, community leaders, religious leaders and community people trough implementing the PHR program.

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