Aarong’s Culturally Sensitive Solution to Empower Rural Women and Drive Economic Growth

Aarong has surmounted considerable challenges to empower rural women artisans through the establishment of local "sub-centres," allowing them to work within their own communities while honouring cultural traditions. This thoughtful approach—reducing absenteeism, offering flexibility, and providing skills training, enables women to harmonise family commitments with financial independence, uplifting entire communities. Delve deeper into the journey behind this sustainable development model.

The Challenge
Aarong’s production units in suburban areas initially thrived with strong participation from rural women artisans, essential to Bangladesh’s artisanal economy. However, as absenteeism and quitting rates rose, Aarong recognized the impact of cultural expectations that restricted women’s mobility and required them to prioritize household duties.

Aarong Sub Centre in Manikganj, set up in the home of an artisan

The Solution: Bringing the Workplace to the Women
To respect these cultural constraints, Aarong introduced a culturally sensitive solution: decentralized "sub-centres" within village courtyards. This approach allowed women to work from home, eliminating the need for long commutes and respecting traditional expectations, thus creating an accessible work environment.

Artisans in the sub-centres often bring their children to work

Key aspects of this solution include:

1. Establishing Village Sub-centres: These smaller production centres allowed women to start value-addition tasks—like embroidery and beadwork—directly in their courtyards. After completing initial stages, semi-finished goods moved to main centers for final touches, quality control, and distribution. This streamlined approach respected cultural boundaries and maintained Aarong’s quality standards.
2. Balancing Work and Family Life: By locating work close to home, Aarong enabled women to manage household responsibilities while contributing economically. This balance reduced absenteeism and improved workforce stability.
3. Flexible Hours: Women could set their own schedules, working when it suited them without compromising family roles, which encouraged more women to join the workforce.
4. Cultural Respect and Community Trust: Aarong’s approach upheld cultural norms rather than challenging them, allowing women to continue traditional roles while achieving financial independence. This respect built community goodwill and solidified the model’s sustainability.
5. Training and Skill Development: Aarong provided on-site training, increasing productivity and income without requiring women to leave their communities. These skill-building programs enhanced artisans’ abilities, contributing to both personal and economic growth.

Women artisans engaged in embroidery work at a sub centre

The Impact: Economic Empowerment and Community Growth
This model produced lasting benefits for artisans and the community:

• Increased Workforce Participation: By removing logistical barriers, absenteeism declined, and more women were empowered to participate economically.
• Enhanced Household Income: Women’s financial contributions raised living standards and fostered a sense of independence.
• Sustainable Economic Development: Decentralized production stimulated local economies by retaining wealth within villages, benefiting artisans and the wider community.
• Cultural Harmony: Aarong’s approach fostered acceptance and support from local communities by working within the cultural framework, ensuring long-term success.

Aarong’s model illustrates how social enterprises can drive economic growth while respecting cultural traditions, offering a sustainable template for rural development globally.