Situation analysis of street children of Khulna city, Bangladesh

Title : Situation analysis of street children of Khulna city, Bangladesh

Abstract:

This study investigates the complex realities of street children in Khulna city, Bangladesh, focusing on their socio-economic vulnerabilities, educational exclusion, and exposure to abuse. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research surveyed 188 children aged 6–18 and conducted focus group discussions to capture their lived experiences. The majority of respondents were boys aged 10–12, with 72.8% engaged in informal labor to support their families—primarily in markets, domestic work, and street vending. Financial hardship and the need to earn income were the leading causes of school dropout, compounded by hunger and harassment, particularly among girls. Educational attainment among street children is alarmingly low: only 6.1% reached secondary school, while nearly half remained at primary level. Abuse is widespread—reported by both genders—with 73.3% of non-school-going children experiencing violence from parents or caregivers, and 60% reporting mistreatment by law enforcement. Girls face heightened risks of harassment and food insecurity, with 61.1% reporting starvation. Although some children receive educational stipends and vocational training, access remains inconsistent and insufficient. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions, including monthly financial aid, non-formal education pathways, and income-generating training tailored to age and gender. For example, 76.5% of boys and 54.5% of girls requested school fee support, while 61.1% of non-school-going boys and 50% of girls expressed interest in vocational training. The findings echo national and global research, reinforcing the need for inclusive policies, protective legislation, and coordinated efforts between government agencies and NGOs. Future funding should prioritize integrated programming that addresses education, protection, and livelihood development, ensuring sustainable reintegration and safeguarding the rights of these vulnerable children.

Biography:

Md. Sohedul Islam is a seasoned Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) professional with over 17 years of experience, including more than 15 years in leadership roles at World Vision Bangladesh. Currently serving as Program Quality Manager at the national office in Dhaka, he oversees MEAL functions for grants-funded projects, including those supported by USAID, BHA, EU, KOICA, GAC, DFAT Australia, UNICEF, DFID, and the World Bank. His expertise spans research, data management systems, donor reporting, proposal development for funding, and capacity building. He has also worked internationally, serving as Program Quality Advisor for World Vision Solomon Islands (pacific country), where he led MEAL functions for 21 grants project including research activities; M&E business planning, capacity building, evidence-based donor reporting and strategy reporting. Sohedul is proficient in research methodologies, impact evaluations, and data analysis using tools like SPSS, KoboCollect, mWater, nVivo, WHO-anthro. He actively collaborates with universities, research firms, and global MEAL networks to enhance learning and innovation. He has intensive knowledge on project design and community engagement. He is the registered master trainer for in house and global capacity building in partnering. Experience 10+ years working in the dynamic group of national disaster management team. His core research ability in public health and economics. Intensive program research, evidence building and data analysis his passion. Academically, he holds a master’s degree in Development Policies and Studies from Khulna University, along with B.Sc. honors and a master’s in Statistics from Rajshahi University, plus a postgraduate diploma in ICT. Known for his facilitation skills and strategic thinking, Sohedul is committed to driving program excellence and community impact through implementing robust MEAL systems.