Representative of the Canadian Government, Ms Janet Siddal, Assistant Deputy Minister, Ministry of Immigration, Canada, visited BRAC programmes in Manikgonj on November 10, 2005 to have a first-hand understanding of diverse techniques undertaken by BRAC in its pledge to empower the rural women of the Bangladesh. At Manikgonj she observed the routine operation carried out by village group members, namely, credit operations, receiving health services and receiving human rights and legal education. Besides interacting with the group members and witnessing “cow rearing” as an Income Generating Activity, she visited a Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) programme member’s household. She enquired about her present economic and social condition and the role BRAC played in improving it, lauding BRAC’s efforts in reducing the illiteracy rate of the underprivileged children while observing activities in BRAC Primary School. The visit was enriched by a visit to the Ayesha Abed Foundation, a handicraft production and training centre for destitute women.

Mr Jacob Thoppilo, First Secretary (Development), Canadian High Commission, Mr Shabbir Ahmed Chowdhury, Director, Micro-finance and Mr Fariduzzaman Rana, Communications Officer, PA&C accompanied the visitor.

© 2005 BRAC Bangladesh
75 Mohakhali
Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh