Social Work - Theses

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    Exploring the feasibility and utility of microcredit programs in alleviating poverty of the rural aged in Bangladesh
    Alam, Md Jahangir ( 2015)
    ABSTRACT This study aimed to address effective policy initiatives to reduce poverty and social exclusion of the rural aged in Bangladesh by exploring the feasibility and utility of a microcredit program intervention. A multi methods approach was adopted utilizing literature review, policy and program analysis and two separate phases of fieldwork carried out in Bangladesh. The product was the design and expert review of a microcredit program model tailored to the needs of the rural elderly. Study findings suggested that an age-specific microcredit program was feasible and could be an effective intervention tool to reduce poverty, but would need to be part of an integrated support system. The PRIDE model elaborated in the thesis combines 1) microcredit, 2) savings, 3) insurance, with a linkage to 4) health and 5) other supports for sustainability. Recommendations in relation to future implementation and further development are made particularly in relation to non-government organizations, microfinance institutions, funders and ongoing advocacy for an effective ageing national policy. It is recognized that microcredit is not a panacea for poverty reduction and that effective implementation of the proposed program model would require both continuing aged policy reform and the sponsorship of national and international non-government organizations and funders.