Literacy, Community and Responsibilities through Ganokendra (People's Centre): An Innovative Approach of Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development

Bangladesh has earned significant reputation in the international arena for developing and operationalizing innovative approaches and methodologies in the areas of education, lifelong learning and sustainable development aimed at promoting better quality life of the disadvantaged poor at the grassroots level. One of such innovations is the establishment and operation of Ganokendras or People’s Centers, pioneered by Dhaka Ahsania Mission (DAM). DAM’s interventions are generally focused towards catering to the needs of the poor and extreme poor people at the grassroots level. This paper describes the work of the Ganokendras as they have moved from centers established from outside the community to ‘peoples centers’ which are sustainable, and owned and managed by their communities.