a2i (Aspire to Innovate) programme of the ICT Division, supported by the Cabinet Division and UNDP launched a women-led agent network ‘SATHI’. The goal of this initiative is to close the gender gap in financial inclusion in Bangladesh and increase women’s participation in formal financial services by creating women-friendly financial access points across the country. The SATHI network consists of female MFS agents, female agent banking service providers, or female agents providing both services.
The SATHI network was officially launched on 14 March 2022 with the participation of 100 women entrepreneurs. At present, there are more than 300 members under the SATHI network. To increase the capacity of the SATHI members, a2i has been providing financial literacy training, organizing financial literacy campaigns, developing partnerships to enhance agency of agents, and collaborating with regulators, financial service providers (Banks & MFS) and creating market linkages. MSC Bangladesh has been entrusted with the responsibility of evaluating the SATHI program. For this evaluation, MSC has devised a sequential mixed-method approach, with a focus on conducting a quantitative survey in collaboration with dRi.
Serial No: 259
Theme: Poverty and Vulnerability
Research Method: Quantitative Method
Partner: Microsave Consulting (MSC)
Starting Year: 2023
Study Area: 63 Districts (except Bandarban) of 8 division across Bangladesh
