Doorstep learning for girls in domestic work

UK Bangladesh Education Trust (UKBET)
Doorstep Learning Programme
Half-Yearly Progress Report: January–June 2025
Bringing education to children trapped in domestic labour

Overview

The Doorstep Learning Programme is UKBET’s flagship initiative to support children involved in domestic work through flexible, community-based education. The programme continues to make progress in transforming the lives of vulnerable children in Sylhet City by combining learning, awareness, and economic support for families.

Key Achievements (Jan–June 2025)

• Community Teachers
  A total of 21 trained community teachers are actively running doorstep learning sessions, providing one-on-one support and guidance to working children.
• Locations Covered in Sylhet City
  The programme has expanded to 19 locations in Sylhet City, ensuring children can access learning within their own communities.
• Children Currently Learning
  274 children are currently participating in regular literacy, numeracy, and life skills sessions delivered through the Doorstep model.
• Children Reached Since January
  Since the beginning of 2025, 334 children have been engaged through the programme, including those who have transitioned to school or vocational training.
• School Admission Target (2025)
  School preparation and counselling are ongoing to help meet the annual target of 72 admissions, ensuring children return to formal education.
• Micro-Grants Provided
  So far, 20 families have received micro-grants out of a yearly target of 72, helping them reduce reliance on their child’s income and support safer livelihoods.
• Vocational Training for Children
  47 children have completed basic vocational training (out of a target of 72), equipping them with practical skills for future employment.
• Vocational Training for Siblings
  Only 3 siblings have completed vocational training out of the targeted 36, highlighting the need for increased family engagement.
• Sibling Support (Education/VT)
  The programme aims to support 36 siblings with either education or vocational pathways to reduce the broader household dependency on child labour.
• Community Awareness Sessions
  32 awareness sessions have been conducted so far, engaging parents, employers, and community leaders on child rights, education, and protection, toward the annual target of 57.

Case Study: Taslima Ar (Not real name) – A Dream Beyond Labour

Taslima A (Not real name), a 10-year-old girl from Sylhet, began working as a domestic helper over a year ago to support her family. Her father’s illness and mother’s recent employment left her with heavy responsibilities at home.

Despite her difficult situation, Taslima (Not real name) dreams of going to school and becoming a teacher. She joined UKBET’s Doorstep Learning Programme earlier this year and now attends daily literacy sessions through a local learning circle. Her progress is remarkable, and she rarely misses a class.

Her community teacher shared, “Taslima(Not real name) is bright and eager. She wants to help other girls like her one day.” With continued support, her family is now considering formal school admission for her next year.

Moving Forward

In the second half of 2025, the programme will prioritise:

• Increasing school admissions before the academic year.
• Accelerating sibling vocational training.
• Disbursing additional micro-grants to reduce household dependency on child labour.
• Expanding community awareness sessions, especially in underrepresented areas.

Conclusion

The first half of 2025 has reaffirmed that local, community-led education models can create meaningful pathways for children trapped in domestic labour. With continued support, UKBET will work to ensure more children like Taslima (Not real name) have the chance to dream, learn, and thrive.

Links:

• https://youtu.be/tUIjK9sfSHM?si=0Av641CQVpc3t1Vd