Goalanda Upazila Protibondhi Unnayan Sangastha (GUPUS), also known as the Goalanda Upazila Persons with Disabilities Development Organization, was established on January 1, 2013, by a group of 356 people with disabilities (PWDs) who were motivated by the shared vision of transforming their community. The organization is driven by a commitment to improve the lives of PWDs, advocate for their rights, and ensure their inclusion in every facet of society. Governed by individuals with disabilities themselves, GUPUS is dedicated to promoting self-reliance, dignity, and equality for PWDs in Goalanda Upazila, Rajbari District, located on the southern banks of the Padma River in Bangladesh.
The region, prone to natural disasters such as river erosion and flooding, presents unique challenges for PWDs and other vulnerable populations. Many in this area face severe social and economic exclusion, with limited access to education, healthcare, and employment. In response to these hardships, GUPUS has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights of PWDs, providing life-changing support, and creating opportunities for participation in the social, educational, and economic activities of their community.
From its humble beginnings, GUPUS has grown significantly, expanding its initiatives to support over 3,000 beneficiaries through various programs like relief distribution, winter blanket initiatives, income-generating projects, and medical support. The organization’s efforts are grounded in a cooperative model where members contribute to the organization’s activities, fostering a sense of ownership and solidarity.
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GUPUS’s work is not only about meeting immediate needs but also about ensuring long-term sustainable development for PWDs. The organization advocates for the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and local laws to protect PWDs’ rights, and actively works towards changing societal attitudes towards disability through awareness programs and education.
Today, GUPUS stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing how individuals with disabilities can create lasting change in their communities when provided with the right support, opportunities, and empowerment.
Through collective action and partnership, GUPUS is driving the transformation of society towards greater inclusivity and equality for all.
