Shapla Gram Unnayan Sangstha (SGUS) is a renowned non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to improving the livelihoods and socio-economic conditions of underprivileged communities in the Barind Tract of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Established on September 15, 1999, under the dynamic leadership of Mr. Md. Mohsin Ali, SGUS has been relentlessly working towards poverty alleviation, education, health, women empowerment, microfinance, water and sanitation, agriculture, and environmental development.

With over two decades of dedicated service, SGUS has expanded its operations to six districts, 29 upazilas, and currently serves more than 155,000 beneficiaries through 21+ projects and programs, alongside 33 microfinance branches. The organization continues to play a vital role in uplifting the disadvantaged by implementing sustainable development programs.

Improvement of dignity and quality of life style of the poor, neglected and downtrodden people in the society through multidisciplinary programs.

To help in self-reliance and sustainable development of target people through their capacity enhancement, active participation in development process and local resource mobilization.

SGUS has initiated a wide range of development projects to address the pressing issues of poverty, education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and environmental sustainability in the Rajshahi region. Below are some of the key areas of intervention:

1. Education Development Program

Education is one of the primary focuses of SGUS, ensuring access to quality education for underprivileged children. The organization runs multiple schools, community learning centers, and scholarship programs to enhance literacy and skill development. SGUS operates:

• Shapla Cultural School – Focused on cultural education and nurturing artistic talents.
• Shapla Technical Training Institute – Offering technical and vocational education to equip youth with employable skills.
• Shapla School – A kindergarten school providing foundational education for young children.
• Shapla Krira Institute – Specializing in football and cricket training for young athletes.

2. Health & Hygiene Initiatives

SGUS operates community healthcare services, including maternal and child healthcare, vaccination programs, malnutrition reduction projects, and disease prevention campaigns. Awareness programs on HIV/AIDS, reproductive health, and hygiene practices have significantly impacted community well-being.

3. Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Project

Access to clean water and sanitation is a critical challenge in the Barind Tract. SGUS has successfully implemented numerous WASH projects, constructing tube wells, sanitary latrines, and conducting hygiene awareness sessions to improve community health standards.

4. Microfinance & Economic Empowerment

To promote financial self-sufficiency, SGUS offers microfinance services, providing small loans to rural entrepreneurs, especially women, to start businesses and improve their economic conditions. The organization operates 33 microfinance program (MFP) branches, enabling thousands to become financially independent.

5. Women Empowerment & Gender Equality

SGUS strongly advocates for women’s rights and empowerment. Through vocational training, self-help groups, leadership programs, and financial inclusion strategies, the organization empowers women to contribute to household income and decision-making processes.

6. Agriculture & Environmental Development

Considering the challenges of climate change and soil degradation in the Barind region, SGUS implements sustainable agriculture projects. Farmers receive training on modern farming techniques, irrigation solutions, organic farming, and agro-based entrepreneurship development. Additionally, Shapla Agri-Business plays a key role in honey collection and sales, contributing to sustainable agricultural livelihoods.

7. Charity & Humanitarian Aid

SGUS extends its support to disaster-affected communities by providing emergency relief, rehabilitation assistance, food distribution, and support for orphaned and vulnerable children.

Since its inception, SGUS has made significant contributions to the socio-economic transformation.

• Improved literacy rates through quality education programs.
• Enhanced healthcare services benefiting thousands of underprivileged families.
• Provided safe drinking water and sanitation to remote villages.
• Empowered thousands of women through financial independence and skill development.
• Strengthened rural economies through microfinance and agricultural development.
• Contributed to environmental sustainability through afforestation and eco-friendly initiatives.