About Us
PROTTYASHI is a national non-governmental organization founded in 1983 by Mrs. Monowara Begum in the remote village of Akubdondi, Chattogram District, in western Bangladesh.
It began as a small health program and has grown into a medium-sized microfinance program together with multisectoral development initiatives that reach people across the country.
Our first project was a child health and family planning project. In 2002 PROTTYASHI received the Prime Minister's Award for Mother and Child Health.
Core Values
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Teamwork
Foster partnerships and teamwork, leveraging collective strengths to achieve shared goals effectively.
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Accountability
Accountability means taking ownership of one's actions, decisions, and their consequences. It is a cornerstone of trust and integrity in any personal, professional, or organizational setting.
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Embrace difference of opinion
Embracing different opinions is essential for growth, innovation, and mutual respect. When we welcome diverse viewpoints, we open ourselves to new ideas.
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Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It is a powerful human trait that fosters compassion, strengthens relationships.
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Diversity & Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are fundamental values that foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and innovation. Embracing people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives strengthens any organization or community.
“Creating a strong organizational culture isn’t something that can be achieved through an office memo or circular; it is built through consistent and authentic behaviors. We strive to make our organization unique by utilizing our existing resources and opportunities.”
At PROTTYASHI we believe in building a world that works for all of us.
DonateThe Story of PROTTYASHI
Founded in 1983 in Chattogram as a small voluntary organization, PROTTYASHI has grown over four decades into a respected NGO working across Bangladesh in education, livelihoods, health, disaster response and social awareness.
Today, PROTTYASHI plays a crucial role in the development of both rural and urban communities in Bangladesh. The organization promotes women empowerment, facilitates healthcare and nutrition services, increases access to basic education, climate-adaptive WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene), labor rights, migrant welfare, and provides livelihood and food security opportunities. It also introduces approaches to adapt to and mitigate climate change impacts while advocating for human rights and social justice.
In response to the Rohingya humanitarian crisis, PROTTYASHI is a leading organization, actively working in the camps and host communities in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasanchar. As one of the first responders, PROTTYASHI offers a range of support services, including livelihood assistance, WASH, skills development, education, protection, and healthcare. The organization’s comprehensive approach aims to build resilience among those affected by the crisis and sets a benchmark for sustainable economic empowerment.
PROTTYASHI continues to address contextual challenges and gaps, designing and implementing development interventions with maximum benefit to the target communities. It upholds the value of inclusive development, ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly in times of crisis. By providing need-based services and implementing off-farm livelihood programs, PROTTYASHI supports community members, especially women, with skill development and sustainable market linkages, helping them achieve long-term revenue and economic stability.
Legal Status
| Registering Body | Year | Registration Number |
|---|---|---|
| NGO Affairs Bureau | 1992 | 628/1992 |
| Microcredit Regulatory Authority | 2008 | 00940-00304-00145 |
| Social Welfare Directorate | 1987 | 1285/1987 |
| Family Planning Directorate | 1983 | FP Chatta 22/1983 |
Our work in action
One woman's vision changed millions of lives
The life and legacy of our founder, Mrs. Monowara Begum, whose leadership has guided PROTTYASHI's work for nearly forty years.