Dr. Arifur Rahman, Founder and Chief Executive of YPSA, discusses how YPSA goes beyond traditional micro-credit in the 44th episode of a joint program produced by Channel i and the Credit and Development Forum (CDF). The program explores the essential role of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in driving inclusive financial development across Bangladesh.
Dr. Arif emphasizes a “blended finance” model that integrates micro-credit with health services (e.g., mobile physiotherapy units), formal/non-formal education, capacity building, and disaster management to empower coastal communities. The video features a documentary on YPSA’s Sustainable Aquaculture Development Initiative in Northern Chittagong (Miresrai & Sitakunda)—funded by the World Bank via PKSF’s Sustainable Enterprise Project (SEP)—demonstrating how YPSA provides technical training, hatchery support, feed distribution, and market access to local fish farmers (including women).
Joined by Mosleh Uddin Ahmed, Managing Director of Shahjalal Islami Bank, the discussion underscores the necessity of bank-MFI linkages, agent banking, and MFS to reach the over 50% unbanked population. He also stresses the need for co-operative structures to bypass market intermediaries, region-based market creation, and financial literacy programs to build sustainable rural growth.
