Project for children collecting garbage in Sylhet

The pandemic has led to rising levels of unemployment amongst the poorest families in Bangladesh. As a result, more children than ever were 2 sent to work instead of school to contribute to their family’s income. A recent joint study from the World Bank and United Nations agencies estimated that 1 out of every 10 girls in Bangladesh did not return to school as they reopened after the COVID-19 lock-downs. Instead, they worked long hours in high-risk physical occupations, often vulnerable to abuse.

UKBET’s purpose is to use education to radically change and improve the lives of working children and their families. UKBET teachers and fieldworkers bring teaching and learning to girls enslaved in domestic work, to boys in hazardous occupations as well as support for income generating to their families. In 2021 a new pilot programme was started teaching children found daily scouring rubbish tips as a way of earning money. The impact of UKBET’s programmes are significant. Working children learn to read, write, use numbers and take better care of themselves. Some return to school, others move into vocational training and safe employment. Families become self-sufficient or are referred to other agencies for support; all enjoy free healthcare. This report is a tribute to the participation and determination of these children and their families.

In Bangladesh's urban areas around 400,000 people, mostly women and children, survive by sorting and collecting waste materials at local garbage dumps. They work barehanded sorting paper, plastic, metal and glass and selling what they find to recycling centres. This work is horrible.

With support from the World Sylhet Sommelon (Convention), Jalalabad Association UK, Just Help Foundation UK, and local Bangladeshi philanthropists, UKBET has piloted a project with children working on dumps in Sylhet. The programme provides numeracy, literacy and life skills sessions at learning centres near waste hotspots. Fieldworkers liaise with the parents and encourage children to attend classes three times a week.

55( 16 Girls, 39 boys) children were regularly attending sessions at local learning centres

9 children had started school

3 micro-grants had been given to family members

Eid festival clothing and food packs were distributed to children and families.

Your donations make a profound impact to the futures of working children. No matter the amount, they are always much appreciated. We request you to continue your support.