
Learning 360°
Learning 360° is a transformative project led by The Leprosy Mission International-Bangladesh (TLMI-B) aimed at improving the socio-economic and health conditions of people affected by neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and disabilities. Funded by TLM Switzerland with co-funding from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the project operates in 23 districts across Bangladesh through eight sub-projects under the TLMI-B umbrella. Launched in 2021, Learning 360° focuses on empowering individuals through timely access to quality health services and socio-economic opportunities, contributing directly to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Key Objectives:
- Access to Healthcare: Ensure that people affected by NTDs have timely access to integrated health services and receive the necessary treatment, aiming for early detection and reducing disability-related complications (SDG 3).
- Empowerment through Education and Employment: Enhance the socio-economic conditions of affected individuals by providing education, vocational training, and financial support, promoting decent work and economic growth (SDG 4, 8, 10).
- Zero Goals: Contribute toward the “Triple Zero” goals: zero transmission, zero disability, and zero discrimination.
Learning 360° covers 23 districts in Bangladesh, including Rangamati, Bandarban, Khagrachari, Chattogram, and Dhaka City Corporation, among others. The Project Duration is 4 years from January 2021 – December 2024
Contributions to:
This project supports TLMI-B’s strategic pillars, contributing to multiple outcomes of TLMI-B’s Country Strategy and this project’s Key Activities are:
- Training sessions for government and civil society organizations (CSOs)
- School-based awareness sessions for students
- Workshops with religious leaders and volunteers
- Referral services for individuals with leprosy and disabilities
- Provision of assistive devices and treatment at DBLM Hospital
- Leadership and financial management training for Self-Help Group (SHG) members
- Youth ICT training and educational support
- Financial assistance for persons with disabilities to engage in income-generating activities (IGAs)
- Community engagement and promotional events with local businesses and financial institutions
- Workshops with schools, parents, and teachers to raise awareness about leprosy and disability inclusion
Achievements:
Since its inception, Learning 360° has directly benefited 128,340 people (97.13% of the target), indirectly reaching 1,678,075 individuals. The project has successfully:
- Supported early detection of leprosy, preventing disabilities through timely interventions
- Promoted social inclusion and reduced stigma via advocacy and awareness campaigns
- Empowered SHGs and federations to access government social safety nets
- Fostered economic growth by promoting handicrafts and agricultural products
- Enhanced youth employability through education and skill-building initiatives
