Background
Bangladesh is densely populated, with over 130 million people
living in an area about twice the size of Tasmania. Poverty
is widespread, with many people living in cramped, slum-like
conditions. More than three quarters of the population live
on less than US$2 a day and many do not have access to adequate
sanitation facilities. Almost two thirds of Bangladeshis are
employed in the agriculture sector, though frequent natural
disasters such as cyclones and floods make it difficult for
farmers to produce enough food to feed their families. The
majority of children do not continue their education after
primary school, resulting in high levels of illiteracy. More
than half the population cannot read and write.
World Vision Australia is working with the
communities in Bangladesh. Below are examples of funded projects:
Area Development Programs (ADPs)
The main aim of Area Development Programs in Bangladesh is
to help communities overcome poverty and lead a sustainable
future. Projects include: preventative health care; land management;
and training in modern agriculture practices. Access to safe
drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities has improved
the communities' hygiene practices and decreased the spread
of preventable diseases.
HIV/AIDS
This project focuses on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.
Target groups include seafarers, fishermen, sex workers, and
students. This project aims to decrease the rates of new infection
and educate high risk groups about the dangers of HIV/AIDS.
Youth Traineeship Scheme
This scheme provides young people with vocational skill training
so that they can seek employment or start their own small
business. The project is funded in a similar way as child
sponsorship, with participants being individually sponsored
to undertake training in tailoring, carpentry and electrical
maintenance.
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