The 'Restoring Mobility: Artificial Limb Support' initiative, a key component of the SMILE project supported by Chevron Bangladesh, concluded successfully in Sylhet, providing life-changing prosthetic and orthotic devices to 60 beneficiaries.
The closing ceremony, held at a hotel in Sylhet, marked the culmination of the intervention implemented in collaboration with the Jalalabad Disabled Rehab Centre and Hospital (JDRCH). The project specifically targeted individuals from Sylhet and Nabiganj upazilas who had long struggled with physical disabilities and lacked access to affordable rehabilitation services.
The event drew high-profile attendees, underscoring the strong public-private partnership behind the effort. The Additional Secretary of Coordination & Monitoring, Energy and Mineral Resources Division Md. Abdul Mannan was present at the event as the Chief Guest.
Eric M. Walker, Managing Director and President, Chevron Bangladesh; Muhammad Imrul Kabir, Director, Corporate Affairs, Chevron Bangladesh; A K M Arif Akter, Head of Social Investment, Chevron Bangladesh; Helal Hussain, Country Director, Swisscontact; and Rtn. PP Engr. Shoaib Ahmed Matin, Chairman, Board of Trustees, JDRCH, were present on the occasion.
The collaboration between Chevron Bangladesh, Swisscontact, and JDRCH was hailed as a powerful model for driving resilient and inclusive community development.
Impact beyond medical assistance, the chief guest, Md. Abdul Mannan, highlighted that the artificial limb support goes far beyond medical aid, emphasizing its "broader social significance."
“I sincerely appreciate Chevron Bangladesh, Swisscontact and JDRCH, whose collective partnership and expertise have improved mobility, and hope for persons with disabilities, demonstrating the power of collaborative action in creating meaningful societal change," he said.
Eric M. Walker echoed this sentiment, noting that nearly 80 percent of people have limited access to such specialized support.
He stated, "Every step taken by these beneficiaries is a strong step toward a better tomorrow."
Helal Hussain of Swisscontact stressed the economic and social empowerment achieved: "This initiative was impactful and went beyond just mobility, it enabled them to return to work, continue education, actively engage in social life, and contribute economically while fostering greater inclusion within their communities.”
Restoring Dignity and Livelihoods Muhammad Imrul Kabir reiterated Chevron's long-term commitment to Bangladesh, which extends beyond energy partnership.
He noted that the SMILE project supports 9 out of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, including health, education, and inclusion for people with disabilities.
The most moving part of the ceremony was the heartfelt testimonies from beneficiaries, who spoke about regaining independence and returning to work, education, and household responsibilities.
The provision of prosthetic devices has stabilized household incomes and boosted personal confidence, creating a positive ripple effect that strengthens families and contributes to broader socio-economic development, the release concluded.
Chevron Bangladesh and Swisscontact affirmed their continued efforts to improve livelihoods through sustainable and impactful development initiatives.