Total: 27
Dasra is an organization driven by a deep-seated belief in the exponential power of equity. Its approach to social change is firmly rooted in the acknowledgment of diverse challenges and the unlocking of ability and opportunity. Dasra strives for equity by comprehensively understanding various forms of vulnerability and systematically addressing inequity at all levels. Through the pursuit of systemic change, Dasra aims to sustain equity and create pathways for positive transformation. Collaborative action lies at the core of Dasra's work, as it brings together stakeholders from civil society, communities, philanthropists, and government to achieve collective impact. Dasra accelerates social change by leveraging the unique positions of stakeholders and amplifying collective voices. Its stakeholder-centric approach fosters community-led government engagement and enables the pooling of resources, expertise, and skills to codify information and best practices. The organization steers toward collective action, ensuring alignment, delivery, tracking outcomes, and fostering community resilience. Dasra has received recognition in esteemed publications such as Verve, Mint, Forbes India, and Fortune India for its pivotal role in driving effective philanthropy and transformative social impact. Dasra remains committed to its mission of creating a more equitable world through collaboration, innovation, and systemic change, with the ultimate goal of unlocking the full potential of individuals and communities.
WSUP, the Water & Sanitation for the Urban Poor, was established through the partnership of Jeremy Pelczer, former CEO of Thames Water, and Richard Sandbrook, co-founder of Friends of the Earth. Thames Water recognized the limitations of traditional water utilities in meeting the needs of the urban poor while fulfilling commercial requirements. In 2005, seven organizations collaborated to create WSUP as a not-for-profit company registered in England & Wales. DFID, the UK's Department for International Development, played a crucial role in shaping the concept and became one of the initial funders. WSUP focused on six core countries to identify effective ways of delivering water and sanitation services to the urban poor. Country-specific teams were established, led by a Country Programme Manager reporting to a UK-based Programme Director. This structure facilitated local implementation and enhanced connectivity with in-country institutions responsible for service delivery, fostering effective sector change. WSUP emerged as a collaborative effort, uniting diverse stakeholders to bridge the gap in providing essential services and improving water and sanitation access for the urban poor.
Shahjalal University of Science & Technology (SUST) was established in 1986 after a long struggle and relentless movement. Initially starting with three departments, namely Physics, Chemistry, and Economics, and a small number of teachers and students, it has now expanded to seven schools, 27 departments, and two institutes. The university currently has 566 teachers and 8,596 students. Additionally, SUST has 12 affiliated medical colleges with 4,000 students under the School of Medical Sciences. SUST has played a pioneering role in Bangladesh's education system. It introduced the integrated honors course and the semester system, resulting in a significant improvement in the quality of education. The university emphasizes language and computer literacy by requiring students to take language and computer courses, making SUST one of the most IT-enabled universities in the country. In terms of research, SUST strives to create a research-oriented environment. The university publishes two research journals, one in Bangla and the other in English, and hosts international conferences. The vision of SUST is to be a leading university of excellence in science and technology, with a strong national commitment and international impact.SUST has received recognition for its contributions to the education sector and has been awarded for its achievements. The university covers a vast area of 320 acres in Kumar Gaon, Sylhet. It offers a wide range of degree programs, including honors, engineering, masters, MPhil, PhD, medical, and others.
SNV is a global development partner dedicated to creating a better world where all individuals can thrive sustainably with dignity and equal opportunities. Operating in over 20 countries in Africa and Asia, SNV aims to transform agri-food, energy, and water systems for sustainable and equitable lives. Through capacity strengthening and partnership catalyzation, SNV goes beyond project implementation to drive lasting change. Their focus areas include building resilient agri-food systems, improving water and sanitation access, and increasing access to affordable and sustainable energy. With a team of 1,600 colleagues, mostly from the countries they operate in, SNV is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They strive to reduce gender inequalities, promote effective governance, and address climate and biodiversity challenges. SNV actively shares knowledge and engages with stakeholders, including governments, institutions, NGOs, CSOs, and the private sector. They communicate their work passionately and clearly to maximize impact and influence. In 2022, SNV made significant achievements, improving the lives of 6.2 million individuals and securing €173 million in funding. Their team comprises 1,376 employees, with 32% being women. SNV is led by a Managing Board and overseen by a Supervisory Board, ensuring effective implementation of their mission to alleviate poverty. Their focus areas include agri-food, energy, water, climate adaptation and mitigation, gender equality, and strong institutions.
Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology (RUET) is a prestigious public Engineering University and center of excellence in Bangladesh. Established in 1964 as Rajshahi Engineering College, it evolved into the Bangladesh Institute of Technology (BIT), Rajshahi in 1986, and further developed into RUET in September 2003. The university is financed by the Government through the University Grants Commission and operates autonomously under the "Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology Act 2003." RUET offers high-quality education and research in the field of engineering and technology. It consists of 14 departments, encompassing both engineering and sciences, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. The university maintains a green and well-balanced campus, providing a conducive environment for learning and research. RUET emphasizes the integration of engineering and technology in finding innovative solutions to sanitation issues. Faculty members and students from relevant departments work on research projects related to sanitation, wastewater management, and sanitation infrastructure development. They explore technologies, design sustainable sanitation systems, and assess the environmental and social impacts of sanitation interventions. The university also collaborates with government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to implement sanitation projects. These partnerships aim to improve access to safe and hygienic sanitation facilities, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. RUET actively participates in designing and implementing sanitation programs that address the specific needs of the communities, considering factors such as affordability, cultural practices, and local context.
Practical Action is an international development group dedicated to empowering people in poverty to create positive change. With a vision of a better world for all, Practical Action addresses challenges intensified by climate change and gender inequality. Practical Action works in partnership with communities, developing innovative and locally owned solutions for agriculture, water and waste management, climate resilience, and clean energy. The organization believes in sharing successful approaches to enable more individuals to transform their lives. Established in 1966 as the Intermediate Technology Development Group (ITDG), Practical Action was founded by economist and philosopher E.F. 'Fritz' Schumacher. Schumacher's philosophy emphasized context-specific solutions, equipping people with the knowledge and tools to improve their situations and live within the planet's means. Practical Action stands out by recognizing the agency of people living in poverty. The organization supports them by providing appropriate plans, tools, and knowledge while fostering effective partnerships to address the social and economic systems that perpetuate poverty. Practical Action acts as a problem solver, collaborating closely with local communities, sharing cutting-edge research, and providing technical expertise. Through bold collaborations and innovative thinking, Practical Action aims to create sustainable solutions that make a real impact on the lives of those facing poverty. Committed to lasting change, Practical Action empowers individuals and communities to thrive, shaping their own futures.
Municipal Association of Bangladesh (MAB) collaborates with local government and international organizations to deliver excellent services. Municipalities play a crucial role in achieving good governance and ensuring the benefits of urbanization reach citizens. Strengthening and empowering municipalities are essential for realizing these benefits. MAB, established in July 2003, represents a significant number of municipality mayors, actively raising a unified voice for the decentralization and democratization of the local government system in Bangladesh. It organizes seminars, workshops, and discussions, highlighting the importance of democratization and decentralization in local governance. MAB implements activities as a united platform for municipalities, identifying constraints, and providing recommendations to the government for resolution. The association offers training and technical support to municipal representatives, fosters a positive image of municipality activities, and advocates for effective local governance. The goal of MAB is to raise a united voice for all municipalities in Bangladesh and promote an integrated program approach to strengthen its platform. Objectives include presenting real-life recommendations to the government, providing training and support, establishing effective communication with local and international organizations, and implementing joint projects. As a registered organization, MAB advocates for local government issues, improves the standard of municipal development, and collaborates with government and development agencies. It plays a vital role in ensuring the rights and responsibilities of municipalities while facilitating partnerships and memberships with national and international associations.
Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET) has a historical background that dates back 49 years. It was established in 1967 as 'Khulna Engineering College' under the University of Rajshahi. However, due to the liberation war, its development activities were temporarily suspended. After the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, the institute resumed its development with renewed vigor. Under the special direction of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the academic activities officially commenced on June 3, 1974. Initially affiliated as a faculty of engineering under Rajshahi University, Khulna Engineering College faced various challenges in coordination and smooth functioning. The scarcity of teachers even led to a temporary halt in new student admissions. However, through the collective effort of students, teachers, officers, staff, and professional bodies, the four engineering colleges in the country, including Khulna Engineering College, were transformed into autonomous institutes named Bangladesh Institute of Technology (BIT) from July 1, 1986. As BIT, Khulna embarked on its journey to become a center of excellence in the southwestern region of Bangladesh. However, the institute's autonomy was limited, hindering decision-making and management. Recognizing the need for proper autonomy and to fulfill the aspirations of the people, the government converted and upgraded the four BITs into universities of Engineering & Technology. Effective from September 1, 2003, BIT, Khulna became Khulna University of Engineering & Technology. KUET's focus is on providing high-quality education, research, and developmental programs in engineering and basic sciences. The university is known for its commitment to excellence and aims to address the needs of the country and the southwestern region, establishing itself as a center of excellence in engineering education and research.
Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, stands as a globally recognized leader in aquatic research. Situated within the ETH Domain, Eawag conducts pioneering studies on water ecosystems, both as habitats and resources. With its interdisciplinary approach, close collaborations with practitioners, and a vast international network, Eawag is at the forefront of addressing water-related challenges and developing widely accepted solutions. Its research encompasses three core areas: Water for Human Welfare (with a focus on drinking water and wastewater), Water for Ecosystem Function (emphasizing biodiversity, ecosystems, and pollutants), and Strategies for resolving competing demands (centered around water, development, societal decision-making, and energy). Eawag's work not only advances scientific knowledge but also contributes to practical applications, fostering collaborations, and knowledge transfer with partners worldwide. Through academic education, international partnerships, and a commitment to the next generation of researchers, Eawag maintains its position as a driving force in the field of aquatic science and technology, addressing critical issues such as antibiotic resistance in sludge microbiomes.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Established in 1990, the Environment and Public Health Organization (ENPHO) is a prominent national non-governmental organization in Nepal dedicated to creating eco-societies by delivering high-quality services in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), as well as environmental and public health initiatives. ENPHO's core focus lies in research, innovation, and the promotion of sustainable WASH technologies and practices, making it a driving force in community development. The organization actively conducts applied research, demonstrates eco-friendly technologies, and implements strategies to foster healthy and environmentally friendly societies. Through collaborations, advocacy, and capacity building, ENPHO seeks to enhance local communities' access to safe water, sustainable sanitation, and improved hygiene, aligning its efforts with national Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) targets while addressing pressing issues such as climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction. Governed by a diverse General Assembly and led by a dedicated Executive Director, ENPHO plays a pivotal role in advancing public health and environmental sustainability in Nepal.