Zabai And Swisscontact ASTHA, aiming to empower Community Paramedics

Sukesh Nandan Saha ShuvoApril 26, 2023

In a groundbreaking move for the education and healthcare industries, Zabai and Swisscontact ASTHA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduced entrepreneurial courses and services for community Paramedics (CPs) through their e-learning platform. The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior officials Including - Farzana Amin, Team leader of ASTHA, Swisscontact and Al Zihanur Rahaman, Country Manager of Zabai.

ASTHA has successfully completed its Phase II project, which focused on the viability of Community Paramedic Training Institutes (CPTIs) and CPs. This phase resulted in significant achievements, proving the success of the program. Presently, there are 44 CPTIs in the country, providing training and knowledge to hundreds of healthcare professionals on primary healthcare services.  

The partnership between Swisscontact ASTHA and Zabai will help in the successful implementation of the Phase III project that began in January 2023 and will continue till December 2026. In this phase, ASTHA will work in 12 districts, including Rangpur, Nilphamari, Lalmonirhat, Sylhet, Sunamganj, Patuakhali, Barguna, Dinajpur, Bogura, Gaibandha, Barishal, and Moulvibazar.  


The healthcare sector of Bangladesh has been facing a significant challenge in accessing relevant business development services, hindering its sustainable growth. This collaboration is expected to have a significant impact on the CPs' lives by creating more job opportunities and promoting sustainable entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. By joining forces, Swisscontact ASTHA and Zabai will set a precedent for future partnerships that prioritize the betterment of society over individual interests.  

In conclusion, this partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential of edtech in promoting inclusive and sustainable development. It is a historic moment for both parties and a significant step towards realizing their shared vision of empowering marginalized communities in Bangladesh.