Fazal Mohammad, a 50-year-old farmer from the peaceful village of Rongikhali. Together with his wife, Ramisa Begum, they work hard on their land to provide for their family of three daughters and one son, all attending school. However, the weight of education expenses puts a strain on their simple life. he weight of school expenses, however, presses down heavily on their shoulders.Fazal, grappling with financial constraints and sticking to traditional farming methods, finds it tough to sustain his crops and support his children’s education.

The SHINE project, led by Uttaran in Hnila and Whykong Union, Cox’s Bazar district, assisted by Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation, identified Fazal as an integrated demo farmer. Prior to this, he lacked knowledge in cultivating vegetables and poultry or duck rearing in an integrated manner. Uttaran provided training on integrated cultivation techniques, modern technology usage, and supplied agricultural inputs worth BDT 15,000.

Fazal embraced these teachings, applying them to his vegetable cultivation and poultry and duck rearing, incorporating organic methods and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The results were remarkable. Fazal’s produce gained popularity in the local market, bringing in BDT 26,574 from vegetable sales in just two months. Fish sales added another BDT 2,000, and duck eggs contributed BDT 1,000 to his income. This extra earnings not only eased the burden on his family but also supported his children’s education. .

Uttaran stood by Fazal, offering ongoing technical guidance to ensure his continued success. Fazal, once a farmer facing adversity, now dreams of expanding his vegetable production and sharing his newfound knowledge with the community. He has become a respected figure, drawing others seeking agricultural wisdom. Fazal envisions contributing more to community development by disseminating the knowledge acquired from the SHINE project.Today, in the humble abode of Fazal and his family, happiness has found a permanent residence.