The Research and Evaluation Division of BRAC initiated the case study to look into the dropout matter for an in-depth understanding of the causes and effects and policy implications of the issue. Two BRAC Development Programme (BDP) area offices, one from low and one from high NGO concentrated areas, were selected. Six village organizations (VOs) were selected including 3 from each area. Twelve dropout members from selected 6 VOs were taken for the case studies. Selected PRA techniques such as group discussion, physical mapping, in-depth interview, and wealth ranking exercises were used to collect information from dropout members, VO members, area office staff, and other community people. A questionnaire survey was also done on 108 dropout members on some selected indicators. The study shows that the multidimensional reasons interplay, aggravate, and give grounds for dropout. Inflexible savings and credit management policy and various deductions are found to be the most common internecine causes of member’s discontentment and dropout. In spite of long-time membership, some members remain vulnerable to big economic and health-related crises and a little shock plunges them into the dropout. Some members are also dropping out to join other NGOs to minimize opportunity costs in terms of distance, deductions, etc. The well-being status of some dropout members was at risk as their nutrition intake decreased, household assets diminished compared to when they were BRAC members and, in some cases, social support also decreased. Comparatively poorer members were exposed to vulnerability. While some other dropout members who joined other NGOs experienced continuous economic improvement started during BRAC membership.
Authors: Hossain, Altaf
Type: Report
Year: 2003
