| Health & disability equity
Project "Padhakhep" Footsteps
Advancing Mobility, Dignity, and Inclusion
At the Shirin and Sajmila International Foundation (SSIF), our mission is to create systemic and sustainable changes in Bangladesh’s disability services sector. Project Padkhakhep—a partnership with SARPV—embodies this commitment by leveraging SARPV’s longstanding community presence and robust programs to accelerate disability-inclusive development. Together, we are enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening infrastructure, and advocating for rights-based support to uplift the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Program highlights
Infrastructure Modernization
Technical and Administrative Support: SSIF provides input on streamlining SARPV’s internal systems—ranging from program management to record-keeping—ensuring smoother operations and stronger service delivery.
Digital Tools for Data Collection:
We have introduced robust data-tracking methods that inform evidence-based interventions and strengthen policy advocacy.
Advancing Disability-Inclusive Disaster Management
Emergency Preparedness:
Building on SARPV’s pioneering work in disaster-prone regions, SSIF introduced innovative training modules for community leaders, caregivers, and first responders.
Policy-Level Influence:
Joint advocacy has led to greater attention on disability considerations in local disaster management plans, setting a precedent for broader national adoption.
Enhancing
Existing Programs
Physiotherapy and Prosthetics:
SARPV’s affordable prosthetic devices and rehabilitation services now benefit from internationally recognized best practices. Our collaboration has helped expand these offerings to rural and underserved areas, serving more beneficiaries each month.
Disability-Inclusive Schools:
Over 200 children with disabilities have gained easier access to mainstream schooling, thanks to supportive infrastructure upgrades, targeted teacher training, and financial assistance provided jointly by SSIF and SARPV.
Facilitating International Collaboration
Partnerships with Global Experts:
SSIF has forged connections with orthopedic specialists, technological innovators, and advocacy groups worldwide, enabling SARPV to tap into specialized expertise that enriches their service portfolio.
Transparent Governance:
By standardizing reporting frameworks and compliance processes, we have reinforced SARPV’s credibility on the global stage, attracting new collaborations and funding opportunities.
Impact in numbers
5000+
Beneficiaries served through enhanced physiotherapy and rehabilitation services
03
New Global Partnerships established, bringing in fresh technical know-how and resources to SARPV’s programs
200+
Children with disabilities integrated into schools, boosting attendance and inclusion.
100%
Increase in data accuracy, enabled by the introduction of digital monitoring and evaluation tools
STORIES OF CHANGE
These are stories of resilience, of lives disrupted by tragedy and rebuilt through care, courage, and community support. Each journey is a testament to what’s possible when help arrives at the right time.
Hazrat, Age 50
| Overcoming Physical and Social Barriers
Hazrat’s life in a rural village changed forever when he was struck by a speeding truck on his way home from the fields. Initially dismissed as untreatable due to his remote location, he lived in isolation for months. Project Padkhakhep intervened by facilitating a free surgical procedure performed by visiting orthopedic specialists. With subsequent physiotherapy and specialized footwear to address his leg condition, Hazrat can now comfortably manage his day-to-day farm tasks. He has become a vocal advocate for improved road safety measures, working with community leaders to install speed bumps and raise awareness of safe driving practices.
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|going forward
01.
Scaling Services to More Regions: With a growing network of partners, we aim to replicate the Project Padkhakhep model in other high-need areas across Bangladesh.
02.
Deepening Policy Engagement: SSIF & SARPV will collectively push for stronger legislative frameworks to protect and empower individuals with disabilities, focusing on health, education, and employment.
03.
Strengthening Data and Research: Ongoing collaboration with academic institutions will allow for more comprehensive research, driving better-informed decisions and continuous improvement in service delivery.
