Exploring Decision-Making Power in VWB Beneficiaries in Bangladesh: Formulating A System Dynamics Model for VWB Programme

Authors

  • Mahnaz Hossain Fariba
  • Dr. Muhammad Talut
  • Marzia Sultana
  • Md. Sabbir Rahman Sunny

Keywords:

VWB Programme, women's empowerment, decision-making, poverty alleviation, socio-economic development

Abstract

The Vulnerable Women Benefit (VWB) Programme in Bangladesh, previously known as the Vulnerable Group Development (VGD) Programme, provides 30 kgs of rice monthly and training sessions for two years to alleviate poverty and empower women. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the VWB Programme in enhancing decision-making power among beneficiaries using a mixed-method approach. Structured questionnaires (n=274) and interviews (n=20) were administered to the participants of Narayanganj and Chattogram from 2023-2024 and 2021-2022 VWB cycles. Statistical tests, including t-tests and chi-square tests, compared decision-making capacities before and after the Programme. Results indicated significant improvements in decision-making scores where the mean decision-making scores increased from 1.92 before joining to 3.49 after completing the VWB Programme. Chi-square tests have found positive associations between decision-making and different variables within programme participation. It also included a system dynamics model and its simulation for better understanding and comparison. Key factors influencing decision-making included access to education, family support, and income-generating activities, while cultural norms and gender-based discrimination remained the pressing challenges. The VWB Programme significantly enhances women's decision-making power, promoting socio-economic empowerment and gender equality, necessitating continued support and targeted interventions.

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Published

2025-08-11