We are pleased to officially announce the launch of a new project under GRAUS titled “EMPOWERMENT”, in partnership with TUS, Khagrachari, starting from April 1, 2025.
The EMPOWERMENT project is designed to aligns closely with the civic engagement ecosystem by addressing critical gaps in governance, public service access, gender equality, social inclusion, and conflict resolution within the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). It focuses on empowering local civil society organizations (CSOs), community-based organizations (CBOs), and marginalized groups to bridge the gap between rights holders and government institutions.
This initiative reflects GRAUS’s continued commitment to driving meaningful and sustainable change in the communities we serve. More details, including the project goal, objectives, and summary of implementation strategy, are provided below:
This initiative, under the Nagarikata Civic Engagement Fund (CEF), aims to address these systemic gaps through enhanced governance, gender equality, and community empowerment.
Title of the Project: “Enhancing Marginalised People’s Opportunities With Equity, Rights, Mentorship, and Engagement for Nation-building and Transformation (EMPOWERMENT)”
Goal of the Project: The primary goal is to increase the voice, representation, and participation of CSOs, CBOs, and marginalized groups in decision-making processes while holding the government accountable and addressing rights violations.
Geographic Coverage – Bandarban Hill District: The project encompasses:
- Bandarban Sadar Upazila: Bandarban Sadar, Kuhalong, Rajbila, Suwalak, and Tankabati Unions.
- Lama Upazila: Aziznagar, Faitang, Fasyakhali, Gajalia, Rupshipara, and Sarai Unions.
- Naikhyongchari Upazila: Naikhyongchari Sadar, Baishari, Dochari, and Ghumdum Unions.
Beneficiary Coverage ( overall):
- Direct Beneficiaries: 23,928 individuals, including CSOs, CBOs, women, youth, adolescents, researchers, media professionals, and government officials.
- Indirect Beneficiaries: 103,070 individuals across various sectors and communities.
Key Strategy: The project employs a holistic approach focused on:
- Community Mobilization: Formation of CCM groups and awareness sessions for marginalized groups.
- Capacity Building: Training CSOs and CBOs in governance, leadership, financial management, and advocacy.
- Collaboration and Networks: Establishing CSO-CBO networks for joint advocacy and knowledge sharing.
- Gender Equality and Social Inclusion: Promoting women’s empowerment and addressing gender-based violence through targeted interventions.
- Digital Engagement: Leveraging social media platforms for outreach and continuous dialogue.
For any immediate queries, please contact the Project Coordination Unit.
