Rural Development Association (RDA) – a non-political, non-profit, and voluntary social welfare organization – was founded in 16 January 2025 to promote inclusive, equitable, and sustainable rural development in the northern rural regions of Bangladesh. RDA envisions just, resilient, and empowered communities in northern rural Bangladesh – free from exploitation and discrimination – where everyone can realize their full potential and enjoy dignity, equal opportunity, security, and a sustainable future.
At the heart of our mission lies people — the youth and adolescent seeking opportunity, the women aspiring for equality, the farmers cultivating resilience, and the children dreaming of a future filled with hope. Our work is for them and with them. Together, we will continue to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and uphold the principles of justice, inclusion, and dignity.
RDA was founded with a deep conviction that real and lasting development begins in the heart of communities — among people who dare to dream of change, who strive for dignity, and who work every day to build a better future for themselves and others. From this belief, RDA emerged as a catalyst for empowerment, equity, and transformation — focusing particularly on those often left behind: the rural poor, youth, women, girls, adolescent, person with disabilities and marginalized populations of northern Bangladesh.
Guided by its mission to empower rural communities through integrated economic and social programs, basic services, and community-led transformation, RDA focuses on youth development, women’s empowerment, education, health, livelihood promotion, agriculture, environment, and climate resilience. The organization firmly believes that youth are the driving force of change, women are catalysts for sustainable development, and community participation is the key to sustainable development. Upholding the commitment to its slogan—“Empowering Community, Realizing Potential, Building a Sustainable Future”—RDA works with dedication, transparency, and collaboration to create a fairer, stronger, and more sustainable society. As a youth-driven development organization, RDA works alongside government programs and local leaders as supporting partner to ensure a lasting impact in northern Bangladesh.
RDA’s Core Development Beliefs