Author: Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
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News & Events
May 15, 2025

World Bank’s Practice Manager meets SMART project team at PKSF

Christian Peter, Practice Manager of Environment, Natural Resources, and Blue Economy at the World Bank, paid a courtesy visit to the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) on Wednesday, 14 May 2025. A courtesy meeting was held between him and the Managing Director of PKSF Md Fazlul Kader. The Project Management Unit (PMU) of the Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) project informed the progress of the project during the meeting.
During the discussion, PKSF Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the SMART project. He stated that the SMART is a project where we are prioritizing resource efficiency, green growth, and climate resilience of the microenterprises (MEs). By adopting resource-efficient technologies, MEs can achieve significant cost savings. Furthermore, our introduction of the zero-waste approach empowers them to minimize waste generation and maximize its utility by transforming it into resources and adding value. Our field observations indicate that MEs can command better prices by enhancing the value of their offerings. Importantly, MEs create employment opportunities not only for those directly involved but also for many others in backward and forward linkages. This is why investment in microenterprises is bringing a great result for the country.

Acknowledging the comprehensive impact of the SMART project, Mr Peter concurred with Mr Kader’s assessment. He affirmed the World Bank’s commitment, stating, “We should put necessary emphasis on the value chain where the best results can be achieved.” Both of them recognized the enduring partnership between the World Bank and PKSF and reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration in the future.
The meeting also served as an opportunity for the current World Bank Task Team Leader (TTL) for the SMART project Eun Joo Allison to introduce Keisuke Iyadomi, who will assume the role of the new TTL on behalf of the World Bank starting in July 2025. PKSF MD thanked Ms Allison for her continued support during the tenure and expressed his expectation for the same in the future.
Deputy Managing Director of PKSF Md Mashiar Rahman, and Project Coordinator of the SMART project Gokul Chandra Biswas, among others, were also present in the meeting where Md Rawshan Habib, Deputy Project Coordinator of the SMART project, made a presentation on the SMART project and its activities.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
Stories
April 30, 2025

Jharna’s farm: A unique example of cleaner production

Jharna Akter (46), a dedicated entrepreneur from Kabutar Khola village in Srinagar, Munshiganj district, has proven that even the toughest obstacles can be overcome with the right approach and technology. Despite her long experience in cattle rearing, she faced severe social discontent and harsh reality due to poor waste (cow dung) management on her farm. With support from PKSF’s Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) project, Jharna has transformed her farm into a clean, profitable, and socially acceptable model.

Today, Jharna’s farm houses 12 cows, producing about 60 liters of milk daily, which serves as the main source of income for her family. Previously, she used to store cow dung beside the farm, causing the pond next to it to overflow into neighboring paddy fields. Located by the roadside, her farm’s waste created unbearable stench and environmental pollution. Eventually, complaints from neighbors and an order from the local union council chairman forced Jharna to consider shutting down her farm.

In this critical situation, a new opportunity emerged when she connected with the officials of the SMART project, implemented in the field by Resource Integration Center (RIC), a PKSF Partner Organization. Through them, she learned about the project’s Resource-Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) practices and how efficient resource use and improved waste management could make her farm sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Beginning of a new chapter: After joining the SMART project, the sub-project officials facilitated a solution by arranging for Md Mobarak Hossain, a local organic fertilizer producer, to purchase the dung from Jharna’s farm. Jharna shared, “The dung that almost forced me to shut down my farm is now being sold for money — something I never imagined. I learned from the project officials that Mobarak Hossain produces organic fertilizer commercially and sells it both locally and nationally.”

Inspired by this new income opportunity, Jharna decided to venture into organic fertilizer production herself. She took a loan of BDT four lakh from the Partner Organization under the SMART project. With project support, she established a biogas plant, a waste pit, and a vermicompost unit on her farm. She now uses biogas for cooking, and waste management is no longer an issue.

Additionally, she installed transparent sheets on the roof to reduce electricity costs, introduced net ventilation to improve indoor air quality, and fitted nozzles and foggers to ensure moderate water usage. These measures have significantly reduced the wastage of electricity, water, and fodder, while lowering environmental pollution. Consequently, her farm has maintained business growth while preserving environmental sustainability.

Taste of success: These interventions have not only reduced operational costs but also significantly boosted Jharna’s income. With further support from the SMART project, the health of her livestock has improved through regular balanced feeding, timely vaccinations, and deworming.

Seeing her success, other farmers in the area are now eager to adopt RECP practices, reinforcing the potential for a cleaner, more sustainable agricultural sector. Jharna proudly says, “The dung that almost closed my farm is now my source of income!”

Jharna Akter’s journey is more than just the transformation of a farm — it stands as a testament to how the right support and awareness can turn challenges into opportunities. Today, her farm shines as a model of clean and sustainable production.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
Extreme Poverty Reduction
News & Events
April 27, 2025

SMART project earns praise from FID and World Bank for impressive progress

The Financial Institutions Division (FID) and the World Bank commended the impressive progress of the Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) project during the concluding session of the World Bank’s Implementation Support Mission (ISM). The wrap-up session took place on 20 April 2025 at PKSF Bhaban-1, marking the end of the mission that began on 8 April.

Task Team Leader of the SMART project, Eun Joo Allison, express the World Bank’s satisfaction with the project’s progress at the wrap-up session of the meeting chaired by Md Ahsan Kabir, Additional Secretary of the FID. Md Ahsan Kabir also echoed his appreciation for the achievements made under the project. A similar note of encouragement was shared during an earlier session chaired by PKSF Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader.

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Other key attendees included PKSF Deputy Managing Director Md Mashiar Rahman, SMART Project Coordinator Gokul Chandra Biswas, and officials from both FID and PKSF. The mission commenced with a kick-off meeting chaired by Md Mashiar Rahman, who emphasized the SMART PMU’s dedication to implementing low-cost, energy-efficient technologies, particularly in wastewater management in the loom sector.

Throughout the mission, the World Bank team conducted an in-depth review of component-wise progress and visited multiple field-level interventions. From 13 to 17 April, they observed plastic recycling activities in Chattogram (implemented through YPSA), eco-friendly construction and eco-tourism initiatives in Thakurgaon and Panchagarh (via ESDO), automobile workshop interventions in Bogura (through TMSS), and machinery and equipment-related enterprises in Bogura (implemented by GUK).

A stakeholder workshop was also held at GUK’s headquarters in Bogura, bringing together regional stakeholders, micro-entrepreneurs, and relevant government officials.

The SMART project, jointly implemented by PKSF and the World Bank, aims to improve the environmental sustainability of 80,000 microenterprises across the manufacturing, agriculture, and service sectors in Bangladesh. By promoting energy-efficient technologies and cleaner production methods, the project is enhancing productivity, generating employment, empowering women, and contributing to inclusive economic growth.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
News & Events
February 24, 2025

Micro-entrepreneurs in Sirajganj prioritize waste management and product diversification

Micro-entrepreneurs in Sirajganj, known for their expertise in producing Lungi and Gamcha, are now setting their sights on product diversification. They aspire to expand into quality garment production while adhering to environmental and waste management protocols, provided they receive the necessary financial and technical support.

This vision was expressed during a workshop organized under the Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) Project of PKSF at the National Development Programme (NDP) Head Office in Sirajganj. The event served as a platform for local micro-entrepreneurs to discuss the adoption of new technologies and resource-efficient, cleaner production methods.

The workshop was graced by Md Mashiar Rahman, Deputy Managing Director of PKSF, as the Chief Guest, with Md Alauddin Khan, Executive Director of NDP, presiding over the session. Also in attendance were six micro-entrepreneurs, PKSF Panel Supervisors, and other stakeholders. The session commenced with a welcome speech by Gokul Chandra Biswas, Project Coordinator of the SMART Project.

In his concluding remarks, Md Mashiar Rahman emphasized the importance of efficient waste management in loom and dyeing factories. He highlighted the potential of solar power systems as an alternative energy source, stating, “Solar power can significantly reduce electricity consumption and serve as a viable alternative where transparent sheets cannot be used.” He also recommended conducting a study to assess the impact of poor waste management practices on the local community in loom and dyeing clusters.

As part of the workshop, participants visited a mini Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) at a dyeing factory in Tamai village, Belkuchi upazila, along with several loom factories in the business cluster. The visit provided insights into sustainable waste management solutions, reinforcing the commitment of micro-entrepreneurs to adopting environmentally responsible practices.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
Stories
January 29, 2025

Enhancing water use efficiency in poultry production

|| Md Jafar Eqbal, Senior Program Manager (Livestock), SMART project, PKSF||

In 2024, the global chicken population exceeded 34 billion, surpassing the human population of approximately 8 billion by over four times. Bangladesh ranks 13th among the world’s top poultry producers, with 312 million chickens, as per World Stat 2024. This immense poultry production places significant pressure on natural resources, such as water, energy, and materials, and brings forth environmental challenges like waste, wastewater, and air pollution.

The SMART project, implemented by PKSF, focuses on improving environmental sustainability within Bangladesh’s microenterprise sector, with poultry identified as a priority subsector. Among the six targeted environmental indicators under the SMART project, water use and wastewater management are key areas of intervention. Enhancing water use efficiency in poultry production is critical for the welfare and productivity of birds and ensuring the sustainability of poultry microenterprises.

Strategies to improve water efficiency

Optimized Cleaning Practices

  • Scrape yards to remove dirt before washing.
  • Use high-pressure washing systems to reduce water use.
  • Separate wastewater collection, storage, and application systems.
  • Introduce recycling systems to reuse water.

Efficient Drinking Water Management

  • Conduct regular maintenance of water systems.
  • Use appropriately dimensioned drinker installations.
  • Install suitable nozzles and valves.
  • Optimize feed formulation to reduce water intake and nutrient excretion.
  • Incorporate nutritional technologies like amino acids and enzymes to improve animal performance.

Water quality and disease prevention

Ensuring clean drinking water is critical for poultry health. Contaminated water can transmit diseases such as Salmonella and E. coli, resulting in significant economic losses and potential public health concerns. Regular water quality checks and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain flock health.

In poultry production, a single contaminated water source can affect thousands of birds, emphasizing the need for robust water management practices. Farmers can prevent diseases and reduce costs by ensuring water quality, ultimately increasing profitability and sustainability.

The role of SMART project

The SMART project continues to promote innovative practices such as automatic drinking systems and optimized cleaning techniques to enhance water use efficiency in the poultry sector. By integrating sustainable water management practices, the initiative contributes to the resilience and growth of Bangladesh’s poultry microenterprises, ensuring environmental and economic benefits.

Through innovative practices and proper water management, poultry farmers can significantly improve resource efficiency and reduce environmental impacts while ensuring sustainable and profitable operations.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
News & Events
January 29, 2025

World Bank mission assesses biogas plant feasibility under SMART project

A World Bank team conducted a mission from 19 to 23 January 2025 to observe field-level activities and assess the pre-feasibility of installing biogas plants in dairy clusters under the SMART project, implemented by the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF). The mission included meetings, field visits, and stakeholder engagements across Sirajganj, Pabna, and Munshiganj districts.

The mission began on 19 January with a kick-off meeting at the PKSF headquarters, chaired by Md. Mashiar Rahman, Deputy Managing Director of PKSF. Discussions were also held with senior officials from PKSF and representatives from other stakeholders, including the Bangladesh Biogas Development Foundation (BBDF).

From 20 to 22 January, the team conducted technical field visits to dairy clusters in Sirajganj, Pabna, and Munshiganj. These visits aimed to evaluate the implementation of biogas and Resource-Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) practices, as well as assess progress in subsectors such as dairy, loom, and textile microenterprises under the SMART project.

In Sirajganj, the team visited dairy product and loom subsectors implemented through the National Development Programme (NDP), interacting with local micro-entrepreneurs. The team also explored the potential for expanding project activities in the dairy cluster of Pabna. On 22 January, the mission visited Munshiganj to review dairy activities implemented by the Resource Integration Centre (RIC).

These field visits provided critical insights into the project’s impact on micro-entrepreneurs and its role in promoting sustainable and resilient business practices in the target sectors. The World Bank team emphasized the importance of engaging local communities to ensure the success of project interventions.

The mission concluded on 23 January with meetings involving government and private agencies to explore the feasibility of establishing community-based biogas plants in the dairy clusters.

The mission was led by Eun Joo Allison, Task Team Leader of the SMART project and Senior Environmental Specialist at the World Bank. She was accompanied by Gokul Chandra Biswas, Project Coordinator of the SMART project and General Manager of PKSF, along with officials from PKSF and its partner organizations.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
News & Events
January 25, 2025

FID secretary lauds ‘eco-friendly construction’ initiatives under the SMART project

Secretary of the Financial Institutions Division Nazma Mobarek visited the ‘Promoting Eco-Friendly Construction Materials through Resource-Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) Practices’ sub-project under the SMART project of PKSF on 25 January 2025.

With financial and technical support from PKSF, the Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) is implementing the sub-project in eight districts of the Rangpur division. The sub-project aims to extend financial and technical support to 1200 microenterprises so that they can adopt RECP practices in their business.

During her visit to the ‘Eco Holo and Solid Block Factory’ in Akcha Union, Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila, Ms Mobarek praised the initiative, saying, “The production of eco-friendly construction materials not only conserves resources but also sets a benchmark for sustainable practices in microenterprise development. Projects like this reflect our commitment to sustainable growth and environmental preservation.”

She was accompanied by NBR Commissioner Touhidul Monir, Deputy Secretaries Mohammad Amin Shorif and Muhammad Mizanur Rahman, and senior PKSF officials, including SMART Project Coordinator Gokul Chandra Biswas, and other officials from PKSF and ESDO, including Dr Md Shahid Uz Zaman, Founder and Executive Director of ESDO.

During the visit, Dr Zaman provided an in-depth overview of the sub-project’s impact on sustainable development and its potential for environmental conservation.

Designed to strengthen the environmental sustainability of Bangladesh’s microenterprises, the SMART project aspires to benefit 80,000 microenterprises across manufacturing, agriculture, and service sectors. The project aims to enhance productivity, support job creation, empower women, and drive local economic growth by leveraging innovative technologies.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
News & Events
November 21, 2024

SMART project engages regional stakeholders in Jashore

To foster regional stakeholders’ engagement and promote sustainable practices among microenterprises in Jashore, the Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) project of Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) conducted a series of workshops and consultations in Jashore from 19-20 November 2024.

On 20 November, a workshop at the RRF Conference Room brought together a diverse group of participants, including government officials, academicians, and representatives from Partner Organizations (POs). Eun Joo Allison Yi, Task Team Leader of the SMART project from the World Bank, underscored the critical role of stakeholder collaboration in achieving the project’s goals. She highlighted global examples of Resource-Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) practices, emphasizing their relevance to Bangladesh.

Highlighting the need for sustainable solutions, Professor Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman from Jashore University of Science and Technology advocated for life cycle-based approaches to address the unique challenges faced by microenterprises, emphasizing the need for long-term sustainable solutions. The session was inaugurated by Gokul Chandra Biswas, Project Coordinator of the SMART project of PKSF, with Philip Biswas, Executive Director of the Rural Reconstruction Foundation (RRF), delivering closing remarks.

The workshop featured representatives from government agencies such as the District Livestock Office, Department of Fisheries, Department of Environment, and Department of Agricultural Extension. Officials from PKSF, the World Bank, and six POs—including Rural Reconstruction Foundation, Shishu Niloy Foundation, Jagorani Chakra Foundation, Unnayan Prochesta, DESHA Shechsashebi Artho – Samajik Unnyan O Manobik Kallyan Sangstha, and NABOLOK Parishad. Micro-entrepreneurs and distinguished academicians from Jashore University of Science and Technology also contributed to the discussions.

In addition to the stakeholder workshop, a separate event was held at Jashore University of Science and Technology on 20 November to share insights about the SMART project and raise awareness of sustainable practices, specially RECP practices, among the students.

The World Bank team visiting an imitation jewelry worker at work in Jhenaidah

As a part of the two-day itinerary, another consultation meeting was organized earlier on 19 November. Micro-entrepreneurs, and officials of PKSF and its respective POs discussed field-level challenges and opportunities in the meeting. The World Bank team also visited microenterprises in the Automobile and Imitation Jewelry sub-sectors in Jashore and Jhenaidah districts to observe ongoing activities and gather feedback directly from the micro-entrepreneurs on the same day.

The SMART project aims to enhance the environmental sustainability of microenterprises across Bangladesh, targeting 80,000 businesses in the manufacturing, agriculture, and service sectors. By introducing innovative technologies, the project seeks to improve productivity, create jobs, empower women, and foster local economic growth.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
News & Events
November 5, 2024

World Bank applauds PKSF’s progress on SMART project, highlights potential for wider collaboration

In a courtesy meeting held at PKSF Bhaban on 5 November 2024, Christian Peter, Practice Manager of Environment, Natural Resources, and Blue Economy at the World Bank, commended the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) for its impressive progress on the Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) Project. “People need to have resilient livelihoods,” Peter noted, suggesting that PKSF could explore collaborations with other government projects to further strengthen its impact.

Presided over by PKSF’s Acting Managing Director, Md Fazlul Kader, the meeting underscored the enduring partnership between the World Bank and PKSF, which spans over 25 years. “The World Bank has always been beside PKSF in its three-decade journey of reducing poverty and creating sustainable employment opportunities for marginal communities,” Mr Kader remarked. He acknowledged the World Bank’s continued support in providing financial and technical resources to advance PKSF’s activities.

Key figures at the meeting included Dr Fazle Rabbi Sadeque Ahmed, Deputy Managing Director of PKSF; Gokul Chandra Biswas, Project Coordinator of the SMART Project; and Eun Joo Allison Yi, Task Team Leader of the project. Following introductory remarks by the Acting Managing Director, Md Rawshan Habib, Deputy Project Coordinator of SMART project, delivered a presentation detailing PKSF’s recent achievements and the progress of the SMART project.

Designed to strengthen the environmental sustainability of Bangladesh’s microenterprises, the SMART project aspires to benefit 80,000 microenterprises across manufacturing, agriculture, and service sectors. By leveraging innovative technologies, the project aims to enhance productivity, support job creation, empower women, and drive local economic growth.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)
News & Events
November 4, 2024

Basic training conducted for newly-appointed sub-project officials

A comprehensive basic training program was organized from 15 to 24 October 2024 for newly appointed officers of the Partner Organizations implementing the Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) project. The training aimed to equip the officers with essential skills and knowledge required for effective project implementation.

The training was inaugurated on October 15, 2024, at the Padakkhep Institute of Development and Management in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, by Gokul Chandra Biswas, Project Coordinator of the SMART project. He highlighted the unique nature of the training, stating, “Such a session has never been organized before, as this project differs significantly from other microenterprise initiatives. Due to its complex nature, we need to understand the basics at the outset to ensure successful field implementation.”

The training included 80 officers recruited across 9 sub-projects under the project. Conducted by the officials of SMART Project Management Unit, over three days in three separate batches, the training sessions were designed to cover a broad range of critical areas that are essential for the successful execution of project activities.

The training agenda included sessions on Resource-Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) practices, environmental management, information management, financial management, procurement management, communication and knowledge management, and gender and social management. Each module was tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of project implementation, focusing on enhancing officers’ practical understanding and operational skills. Environmental management, for instance, covered strategies to ensure eco-friendly practices in project activities, while financial and procurement management modules emphasized efficient budgeting, resource allocation, and procurement processes.

The training also provided guidance on gender and social management, underlining the importance of inclusivity and gender sensitivity in project activities. Officers were also introduced to communication strategies to effectively engage with stakeholders and ensure the smooth flow of information within the project framework.

Dr. Torun Kumar Paul, Project Manager from Grameen Jano Unnayan Sangstha (GJUS), participated in the second batch of training and noted, “This training is incredibly helpful at the project’s beginning, as it will play a significant role in proper field-level implementation.” He added, “It will be easier for our team to carry out the sub-projects in the field.”

The training program reflects SMART project’s commitment to building a knowledgeable and skilled workforce for the sub-projects of the SMART project. Through this training, officials are now better prepared to navigate the challenges of project implementation, ensuring that the SMART project’s goals of sustainable and resilient development for microenterprises are achieved effectively across the project areas.

By Alal Ahmed, Program Manager (Communication and Knowledge Management)