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Project Padhakhep (Footsteps)
Advancing Mobility, Dignity, and Inclusion
At the Shirin and Sajmila International Foundation (SSIF), our mission is to create systemic and sustainable changes in Bangladesh’s disability services sector. Project Padkhakhep—a partnership with SARPV—embodies this commitment by leveraging SARPV’s longstanding community presence and robust programs to accelerate disability-inclusive development. Together, we are enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening infrastructure, and advocating for rights-based support to uplift the lives of individuals with disabilities.
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Highlights of our program
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Infrastructure Modernization
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Technical and Administrative Support: SSIF provides input on streamlining SARPV’s internal systems—ranging from program management to record-keeping—ensuring smoother operations and stronger service delivery.
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Digital Tools for Data Collection: We have introduced robust data-tracking methods that inform evidence-based interventions and strengthen policy advocacy.
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Enhancing Existing Programs
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Physiotherapy and Prosthetics: SARPV’s affordable prosthetic devices and rehabilitation services now benefit from internationally recognized best practices. Our collaboration has helped expand these offerings to rural and underserved areas, serving more beneficiaries each month.
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Disability-Inclusive Schools: Over 200 children with disabilities have gained easier access to mainstream schooling, thanks to supportive infrastructure upgrades, targeted teacher training, and financial assistance provided jointly by SSIF and SARPV.
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Facilitating International Collaboration
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Partnerships with Global Experts: SSIF has forged connections with orthopedic specialists, technological innovators, and advocacy groups worldwide, enabling SARPV to tap into specialized expertise that enriches their service portfolio.
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Transparent Governance: By standardizing reporting frameworks and compliance processes, we have reinforced SARPV’s credibility on the global stage, attracting new collaborations and funding opportunities.
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Advancing Disability-Inclusive Disaster Management
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Emergency Preparedness: Building on SARPV’s pioneering work in disaster-prone regions, SSIF introduced innovative training modules for community leaders, caregivers, and first responders.
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Policy-Level Influence: Joint advocacy has led to greater attention on disability considerations in local disaster management plans, setting a precedent for broader national adoption.
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Impact in numbers
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5,000+ Beneficiaries served through enhanced physiotherapy and rehabilitation services.
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200+ Children with disabilities integrated into mainstream schools, improving attendance and social inclusion.
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01 New Global Partnerships established, bringing in fresh technical know-how and resources to SARPV’s programs.
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100% Increase in data accuracy, enabled by the introduction of digital monitoring and evaluation tools.
Stories of Change
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Hazrat, Age 50 – Overcoming Physical and Social Barriers
Hazrat’s life in a rural village changed forever when he was struck by a speeding truck on his way home from the fields. Initially dismissed as untreatable due to his remote location, he lived in isolation for months. Project Padkhakhep intervened by facilitating a free surgical procedure performed by visiting orthopedic specialists. With subsequent physiotherapy and specialized footwear to address his leg condition, Hazrat can now comfortably manage his day-to-day farm tasks. He has become a vocal advocate for improved road safety measures, working with community leaders to install speed bumps and raise awareness of safe driving practices.
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Shahana, Age 26 – A Renewed Sense of Purpose
Shahana’s life took a drastic turn when her family car skidded off a highway, leaving her with multiple fractures and permanent damage to her left leg. The financial burden of ongoing treatment threatened her family’s stability. Supported by SARPV’s prosthetic lab and SSIF’s assistance with surgery costs, Shahana regained her ability to walk with the help of a flexible Knee Ankle Orthosis. Grateful for the unwavering support she received, Shahana now volunteers with our project and support local women’s groups, sharing her story to inspire others to seek early medical intervention and rehabilitation services.
Nila, 2 years Old – Finding Her First Steps
Nila was just beginning to crawl when a roadside collision left her with severe leg injuries. Her parents, struggling to meet the high costs of treatment, feared she might never learn to walk. Through SARVP's free surgical intervention program, Nila received specialized care from visiting orthopedic experts. After several rounds of physiotherapy and custom-fitted orthoses, she took her first steps in a supportive gait trainer—an emotional moment for her family and caregivers alike. Today, Nila is an active toddler, eager to explore her surroundings and continuing to build strength with each passing day
Rimon, 2 Years Old – Overcoming Early Adversity
Rimon was still mastering his balance when a bus accident caused multiple fractures to his tiny legs. Accessing quality care in his rural village proved nearly impossible—until Project Padkhakhep stepped in. The initiative covered Rimon’s surgical procedures and introduced specialized pediatric braces designed to support his rapid growth. With ongoing physiotherapy sessions, Rimon’s mobility has improved steadily. He can now stand on his own, and his parents describe him as “unstoppable,” full of curiosity and laughter.
Arif, Age 16 – From Tea Stall to School
Arif, a 16-year-old boy supporting his family by working at a tea stall, faced a life-altering accident when a speeding motorbike left him with a fractured leg and severe knee damage. Unable to afford treatment, his family feared he might never walk again.
Through Project Padkhakhep, Arif received a free surgical intervention, a custom Knee Ankle Orthosis, and regular physiotherapy sessions. His recovery was remarkable, and with financial support from SSIF, he returned to school for the first time in years.
Today, Arif walks confidently and dreams of becoming a teacher.
Munir, 06 Years Old – From Wheelchair to Playground
Munir was confined to a pediatric wheelchair after suffering a hip fracture in a roadway accident near his home. Fearing permanent mobility loss, his parents sought help from Project Padkhakhep’s prosthetic lab. There, orthotic specialists crafted a flexible Knee Ankle Orthosis to accommodate Munir’s growth and active nature. Munir responded well to therapy, quickly adapting to his new device. He now chases after a soccer ball in the local playground—an achievement his family once thought impossible.
Rubina, Age 28 – Overcoming Road Accident Injuries
A devastating road accident left Rubina in urgent need of specialized care. With support from SARPV’s prosthetic lab and SSIF’s logistical assistance, she received a life-changing knee orthosis and physiotherapy sessions at no cost. Rubina has regained much of her mobility and, more importantly, her confidence. She is now back at work, supporting her family and serving as an inspiration to others in her community who face similar challenges.
Forward Outlook
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Scaling Services to More Regions: With a growing network of partners, we aim to replicate the Project Padkhakhep model in other high-need areas across Bangladesh.
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Deepening Policy Engagement: SSIF and SARPV will collectively push for stronger legislative frameworks to protect and empower individuals with disabilities, focusing on health, education, and employment.
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Strengthening Data and Research: Ongoing collaboration with academic institutions will allow for more comprehensive research, driving better-informed decisions and continuous improvement in service delivery.