B-SCAN is a voluntary Disabled People’s Organization
(DPO) led by persons with disabilities, particularly women with disabilities,
committed to advocating for equal rights and inclusion in Bangladesh. Unlike
others who enjoy full citizenship rights, persons with disabilities face systemic
exclusion. We work to ensure universal accessibility, education, employment, transportation
and social dignity on an equal basis with all citizens.
Founded by Sabrina Sultana, a Muscular Dystrophy
survivor, on 17 July, 2009, B-SCAN began as an online movement and quickly grew
into a platform for activism and empowerment. We unite civil society members,
professionals, disability rights advocates and families to challenge societal
attitudes, raise awareness, and build self-esteem among persons with
disabilities. Through collective action, we strive to create an inclusive and
equitable society.
With 24 million persons with disabilities in
Bangladesh, systemic barriers continue to exclude them from education, public
spaces, transportation, and employment. Many children with disabilities are
denied mainstream education due to inaccessible infrastructure, lack of
assistive resources, and deep-seated societal biases. They are often confined
within their homes, robbed of opportunities to contribute and thrive.
At every stage of life, they hear “NO!”—in schools,
workplaces, social events and even public transport. B-SCAN is determined to
turn these “NOs” into “YES”—ensuring access, dignity and equal opportunities
for all persons with disabilities. We envision a future where we can
confidently say: