Annual REPORT

Health service in Kamrangir Char, Dhaka
This health project improves access to vital basic
medical services in the slums of Dhaka. The
aim is to provide as many slumdwellers as possi-
ble with access to a doctor and medicines in
return for a small payment where feasible. With
better healthcare, the local people, including
textiles industry workers, stay healthier and so
can earn a living. Since the project began in
autumn 2005, health awareness in the slums of
Kamrangir Char has improved. Training ses-
sions have been held on health promotion and hygiene,
as well as campaigns about seasonal
diseases – how they affect people and how they
can be prevented.
Information has also been distributed to increase
health awareness among slumdwellers. Partic-
ular emphasis is put on healthcare for mothers and
children. Mothers and pregnant women are given
specific advice on hygiene. Demand for all the training
and information was very high in 2009. In May
2009, additional health promotion campaigns were
run in the slums. Project staff visited schools
and religious institutions, as well as carrying out a
door-to-door campaign.
Charles Vögele has supported the project since
September 2005, and it has now been extended
until 31 January 2011. In 2009, 20 000 people made
use of the services offered.
Occupational training in the slums of Rayer
Bazaar, Dhaka
This project, based in a training centre with its
own shop, gives slum dwellers practical training in
sewing, cutting and embroidery. Disadvantaged
people learn valuable professional skills that will improve
their lives for the long term. Once they have
finished the training, they can start to earn their own
living. More than 80% of those who have completed
the course now have a regular income. Even while
training, participants can earn money from priv-
ate work in order to save up for a sewing machine.
When they have finished they can apply to work
at Charles Vögele’s supplier companies.
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There are two six-month training phases every
year. The curriculum and the number and con-
tent of lessons are regularly reviewed and adjusted.
Thanks to the introduction of new disciplines –
printing and batik techniques – the number of participants
and the capacity has been increased.
Between 1. September 2005 and 31. December 2009,
780 peo-ple were trained on various courses, and
now either work in the project’s own workshop, have
found a job elsewhere, or have set up their own
business. The project, which Charles Vögele con-
tinues to support, has been extended until
31 August 2011.
Key Facts
Chairman’s Message
CEO’s Report
Group Report
Regional Report
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate Governance
Financial Report