Md. Sharif Hossain
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
SOPIRET.
Message: On 25 November 2021, the United Nations General Assembly approved the final recommendation for Bangladesh’s graduation to a middle-income country. However, Bangladesh will have to wait until November 2026 to receive formal recognition. In the current fiscal year 2024–25, the country’s per capita income has reached USD 2,769, and the GDP growth rate stands at 3.49%. These indicators reflect that the citizens of Bangladesh possess significant opportunities and the potential to achieve long-term, sustainable economic growth. The Government of Bangladesh, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, is working toward achieving all the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations by 2030. In this regard, SOPIRET, as a non-profit, non-political, and private development organization, is actively contributing to achieving these goals.
SOPIRET began its journey in 1985 with the objective of providing family planning services across 20 unions in Lakshmipur Sadar and Ramganj upazilas. In 1993, the organization initiated its microfinance operations through two branches in Lakshmipur Sadar and Ramganj. Since 1994, the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) has been providing financial support at low service charges to help alleviate poverty. Currently, SOPIRET operates 57 branches across five districts: Lakshmipur, Chandpur, Cumilla, Noakhali, and Feni.
Since its inception in 1985, SOPIRET has been implementing a range of constructive socio-economic programs aimed at empowering disadvantaged
populations—particularly women—by making them economically self-reliant. Its initiatives focus on promoting a productive, prosperous, and sustainable future for the country. These include skill development training for youth, education, healthcare services, promotion of social justice, awareness campaigns against rumors and superstition, social entrepreneurship, and other development-oriented activities tailored to the needs of the poor.
At present, SOPIRET is implementing various programs across 57 upazilas within its operational areas, targeting ultra-poor, poor, and marginalized communities. Its human-centered development approach emphasizes income generation and entrepreneurship development through programs such as Health, Education, ENRICH, RAISE, BD Rural WASH, RMTP, Integrated Agriculture, and Microfinance. In addition, since July 2017, the organization has introduced “Social and Cultural Activities” for school and college adolescents, as well as a "Uplifting the Quality of the Lives of the Elderly People Program," Since 2020, it has also launched club-based activities under its adolescent development program.
The organization is managed through a transparent and accountable governance system. To ensure good governance in all aspects, annual general meetings are held regularly. The seven-member Executive Committee (current tenure: July 2024 – June 2027), duly approved by the Department of Social Services, provides strategic guidance through comprehensive deliberations on key organizational matters.
Through creativity, innovation, and uniqueness, SOPIRET continues to expand its activities, aiming to eliminate exploitation and inequality in the region while enhancing opportunities for individuals to realize their full potential. The services provided by SOPIRET are highly appreciated by the communities it serves. The organization remains committed to promoting sustainable development, gender equality, and social harmony. Throughout its long journey, SOPIRET has made a significant impact on the lives of many people and continues to work tirelessly to build a better future for all.
The organization remains firmly committed to improving the quality of life of the underprivileged people in the region.
