BRAC University Development Institute (BDI)

January 20, 2014

Published by Ann Marie Almeida at Jan 20 2014

Higher education located in a laboratory of social innovation

Bangladesh was the original development “basket case,” the demeaning term used for countries that would always depend on aid. The country faced famines, floods, and military coups. When it split from Pakistan in 1971, many observers doubted that it could survive as an independent state. Yet over the past 20 years, Bangladesh has made big developmental gains, particularly in the areas of health, life expectancy, and education much of which is credited to BRAC.

April 3, 2009

Published by BRAC at Apr 03 2009

Findings from the BDI Conference on Programs for the Ultra Poor

BRAC University Development Institute (BDI) and CGAP arranged a meeting of staff from the three ultra poor pilot programs that have been the most advanced in "graduating" members. The meeting provided a platform for the pilots so that they could share their experiences, draw lessons from each other and determine next steps.

April 2, 2009

Published by BRAC at Apr 02 2009

BRAC Helps Others Implement Ultra Poor Programs

For those who are too poor even to benefit from microfinance loans, BRAC has a special program providing the ultra poor with a pathway out of poverty. Instead of giving these women loans, BRAC gives them assets: a cow, chickens, seeds, fabric for sewing, etc. depending on the livelihood they want to pursue. We provide them with training and extra support, like feed and vaccinations, and visit them every week to check on the progress of their new business and make sure they're able to meet their basic needs.