BRAC is the largest NGO in southern Bangladesh. It employs more than 100,000 people, with the majority of them being women, and reaches more than 110 million people in Asia and Africa. Founded by Dr. Fazle Hasan Abed in 1972, BRAC, a development organization, has acted as both the initiator and catalyst for many innovations and changes in Bangladesh, especially in poverty alleviation. Their unique, holistic approach in empowering the poor encompasses a range of core programs in economic and social development, health, education, human rights and legal services. In June Golden Year 5 (2008), BRAC announced its intention to establish 8,000 community schools in Asian and African countries.

To recognize BRAC’s noble endeavors, Supreme Master Ching Hai honored the organization with the Shining World Compassion Award. Dr. Fazle Hasan Abed received the Award on September 16, Golden Year 5 (2008), at BRAC’s headquarters in Bangladesh. Dr. Abed and six senior directors warmly welcomed our Association representatives and enjoyed the Shining World Awards and the SOS global warming introductory programs that they presented.

For the Award plaque, the touching letter of appreciation and various gifts from Supreme Master Ching Hai, Dr. Abed repeatedly extended his sincere gratitude to Master. Being extremely concerned about rising food prices, he pointed out that it is important to raise the awareness in the world in terms of what needs to be done in the developed and developing countries in response to climate change. He agreed that people should change their lifestyle as soon as possible, as Master has indicated, in order to save the planet.