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 INTERACTION and 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:

  1. 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).
  2. 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).
  3. 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