Task: To do a FGD and write a report on it
Course Code and Name: MSJ3161 Participatory Research
Project Name: FGD Report On The DNCC Cleaners’ Community
Project Date: Summer 2023
Project Type: Individual
Project Completed on Semester No: 11
CI Theme of the Term: Group Polarization
Project Description:
The Focus Group Discussion sought to examine the working conditions, challenges, and sociabilities of the DNCC cleaners’ community. It has tried to reveal the negative aspects these peripheral workers go through in terms of health, poverty, and human rights questions; therefore, it outlines the daily experiences that these workers go through in the light of the impact that this labor has on the community in general.
Project Justification:
These DNCC cleaners are the ones who help maintain hygiene in the cities, yet they are marginalized and face severe socio-economic and health-related challenges. Their plight, being understood through this FGD, demands better policies and support mechanisms with respect to fulfilling their specific needs. This is important in highlighting the social and policy issues that need to be implemented in order to further social justice, giving a better quality of life to underrepresented workers, while also falling in line with the CI theme of Group Polarization through addressing how systemic inequalities contribute to the marginalization of underrepresented workers.
DEPARTMENT OF MEDIA STUDIES AND JOURNALISM
Course Name: Participatory Research Method
Course Code: MSJ3161
Term: Summer 2023
Section: 01
Final Assignment (Individual)
Writing a Focused Group Discussion Report via Participatory Action Research
Submitted To
Md. Aminul Islam
Senior Lecturer
Bachelor of Social Science
Department of Media Studies and Journalism (MSJ)
University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB)
Submitted By
Zakia Sultana Sanam; ID: 201012045
Date of Submission: Tuesday, 29th August, 2023, 5:00 PM
 | Department of Media Studies and JournalismUniversity of Liberal Arts BangladeshFinal Examination | Summer, 2023MSJ3161: Participatory Research Method (Sec 01) | |
| Total Marks: 100 | ||
| Student Name | Zakia Sultana Sanam |
| Student ID | 201012045 |
| Course Code | MSJ3161 |
| Course Title | Participatory Research Method |
| Session | Summer 2023_Section 01 |
| Marks |
Question
Participatory Research is the use of systematic inquiry in direct collaboration with those affected by an issue being studied for the purpose of action or change. In other words, it is a qualitative research methodology that involves researchers and participants collaborating to understand social issues and take actions to bring about social change. It is a process of knowledge production and real-world action conducted in a democratic, collaborative manner. Keep in mind that, write a report based on:
👉 A focus group discussion using PRA/PLA/PPA/Farmers’ Field School/ method.
👉 The issue of your discussion may include: health and illness, poverty, human rights, social exclusion and discrimination, mental health, drug abuse, disability parenting, and marriage and divorce etc.
👉 Your discussion should try to find out causes, consequences and solutions to the issue.
You can divide your report into 8 main sections, as outlined below.
- 01. Executive Summary/Synopsis
- 02. Introduction
- 03. Methods
- 04. Findings (main themes)
- 05. Discussions (summary of the findings and its analysis)
- 06. Conclusion
- 07. Recommendations
- 08. References
- 09. Appendices (if any)
[Needless to say, you should include a suitable ‘introduction’ and ‘conclusion’]
Keep in mind
👉 You must read the instructions carefully before writing your answer.
👉 Total Marks: 100 [will weigh 40% in the final grading]
👉 Minimum word limit: 1000 words
👉 Deadline of Submission: 11:59pm, August 28, 2023 [Soft copy] at the Google classroom/ and August 29, during office hours (9:00am-5:00pm) [Hardcopy].
👉 You must submit the hard copy of your assignment at the designated place, my desk at PA305. And get signed at the exam attendance sheet.
👉 No email submission will be accepted.
👉 You must write in English.
👉 You may consult published academic journals, articles and books etc. In that case, you must write it in your own language and give proper citations*. Any plagiarism will be considered as a punishable offense, and it will severely affect your grades.
👉 Your submission must be computer composed.
👉 You must submit your assignment at the Google ClassRoom using your account. You also must submit a hard copy of your assignment at the desk of your faculty, and get signed your attendance. Keep in mind, without your sign in the exam attendance sheet, you will be shown absent in the exam.
👉 You must submit your articles in a single MS Word file. You MUST NOT send your assignment in PDF or other file formats.
👉 The name of your submission file should be as follows: [Your Name] _ [Your Student ID] _ [PR-1] _ [Summer 2023].
👉 You will use Times New Roman Font.
👉 Keep one-inch margin on each side, and line space 1.5 inch. You will submit all the answers in ONE file. Keep in mind, NOT more than one file.
👉 The Course Teacher will run a Similarity-Check in Turnitin. Papers with Similarity index higher than 20% will not be accepted.
👉 If the answers of two or more students match completely, or certain paragraphs used in the answer exactly match, all the students having such similarity will get ZERO. No explanation will be accepted in this regard.
👉 For any guidance, do communicate with me. You can contact me at: 01718674830 / aminul.islam@ulab.edu.bd
*Citation should be as follows:
In text: (Author Name, publication year)
In Reference: Author name, (publication year). Title of the article, Name of Journal/book, Issue, Volume, page numbers, [for book: publication place: Name of publisher].
Assessment Rubric
| Indicator | Description | Received Marks | ||
| Excellent91 – 100% | The Answer is detailed, the correct length of the answer is as requested, includes sophisticated language, a range of examples that are appropriate, and the student makes some interesting and accurate observations tackling the question in full, showing an excellent understanding of the topic. | 91 | 95 | 100 |
| Very Good81 – 90% | The answer is somewhat detailed, the correct length of the answer is as requested, includes suitable language, appropriate examples have been used, the student makes appropriate observations, tackling all the aspects up to some extent, showing a good understanding of the topic. | 81 | 85 | 90 |
| Good71 – 80% | The answer is of correct length as requested, includes suitable language, appropriate examples have been used, the student makes appropriate observations, tackling most of the question, showing a good understanding of the topic. | 71 | 75 | 80 |
| Average61 – 70% | The answer tackles some of the questions, uses at least one real example and shows satisfactory understanding of the topic. | 61 | 65 | 70 |
| Poor50 – 60% | The answer is partly appropriate, may not use real examples but shows a basic understanding of the topic. | 50 | 55 | 60 |
| Very Poor10 – 49% | The presentation is partly appropriate or at least makes an attempt at an answer, shows a minimal understanding of the topic. | 10 | 20 | 30 |
| 40 | 45 | 49 | ||
| Unacceptable | The answer is not written in communicative language, is mere copy-paste of supplied materials or other source(s), similarity index is higher than 20%, matches complete (or some paragraphs exactly match) with the answer of another student | 0 | ||
FDG REPORT ON THE DNCC CLEANERS’ COMMUNITY
Zakia Sultana Sanam
Executive Summary/Synopsis
The current condition of the Bangladeshi sweeper community is challenging. Sweepers, who are primarily engaged in manual scavenging and waste management, face various socioeconomic challenges, including low wages, limited access to basic necessities, inadequate housing conditions, and social stigma. Many live in slums or informal settlements, lacking basic amenities and facing discrimination (Hossain, 2013). They often work in hazardous and unhygienic conditions, which puts their health at risk. Discrimination and marginalization further exacerbate their vulnerability and restrict their opportunities for social and economic advancement. This report presents the findings of a focus group discussion with Dhaka North City Corporation sweepers or cleaners using Participatory Research methodologies, which was held on August 26, 2023, Saturday and was conducted by Zakia Sultana Sanam. The aim of this FGD report was to explore issues of poverty, human rights, and health and illness faced by the sweepers. This report highlights the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to these issues, based on the insights shared and identified by the participants emphasizing the urgent need for action and change to improve their living and working conditions (Hossain, 2013).
Introduction
The introduction provides background information on the cleaners of DNCC and the purpose of this focus group discussion. It outlines the objectives of the study and the significance of using Participatory Research methods.
About DNCC:
On November 29, 2011, Dhaka Uttar City Corporation or Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) was founded. It was established as an autonomous body to oversee the 54 wards in Dhaka’s north so that local services could be better managed, but it has subsequently expanded. In Dhaka, there are only two municipal corporations—the other is Dhaka South City Corporation. After winning the April 2015 election, Anisul Huq became the first mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation. Since 7 March 2019, Md. Atiqul Islam has been the DNCC mayor. Up to 2017, when it underwent growth to reach 197 square kilometers, the area was 82.69 square kilometers. A population density of 30,353 people per square kilometer was recorded in the Population and Housing Census 2022, which was released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) (Wikipedia contributors, 2023b). The 54 wards it consists covers the thanas of Turag, Uttara West, Uttara East, Uttarkhan, Dakkhinkhan, Biman Bandar, Khilkhet, Vatara, Badda, Rampura, Hatirjheel, Shilpanchal, Tejgaon, Sher-E-Bangla nagar, Mohammadpur, Adabor, Darussalam, Mirpur, Pallabi, Rupnagar, Shahali, Kafrul, Bhashantek, Cantonment, Banani and Gulshan (Wikipedia contributors, 2023b).
The Wages of the DNCC Workers:
The Ministry of Finance sets the daily labor rates for numerous federal entities across the nation. Regular skilled workers receive a set wage of Tk 600 in city corporations and divisional cities, including Dhaka. Unskilled irregular laborers are paid a fixed salary of Tk 550 in Chittagong and Tk 575 in Dhaka, respectively (TBS. Report, 2020). For unskilled laborers, the district and upazila have set salaries of Tk 550 and Tk 500, respectively (TBS. Report, 2020).
Background of the Study:
The sweepers of Dhaka North City Corporation play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of the city. However, they often face various challenges related to their health, poverty, human rights, social exclusion, and mental well-being. This focus group discussion aimed to understand these issues in depth and identify potential solutions using the PRA and PPA method. The discussion involved DNCC community members directly affected and aimed to empower them to actively participate in the research process. In this focus group discussion, there were a total of 12 participants, both men and women, who are all employed as cleaners in Dhaka North City Corporation. All of them are between 35 and 55 years of age and all of them are working in different wards of Zone 4 and Zone 2. All of them are married and have very little educational qualification, some have studied up-to fifth standard. Details are included in the appendices part of this report.
Purpose of the Study:
The goal of this focus group discussion (FGD) among the DNCC (Dhaka North City Corporation) sweepers community is to understand their perspectives, experiences, and challenges in order to inform policy and decision-making processes. The purpose is to give a voice to the sweepers and ensure their concerns are heard and addressed. The background of this FGD is rooted in the need for inclusive and participatory approaches in research and development, recognizing the importance of engaging directly with the community affected by the issue being studied.
Methods
This section describes the methodology used in the focus group discussion, including the selection of participants, data collection techniques, and ethical considerations. It also explains the rationale behind using PRA and PPA methods to ensure active participation and empowerment of the sweepers.
- Men and women between the ages of 35 and 55 were equally represented in the focus group discussion. And every one of them works full-time for the DNCC as cleaners. This focus group discussion was held at home, and participants’ responses were recorded on a phone recorder and written in a notebook. Each participant willingly agreed to participate in this discussion by signing a consent letter before it began.
- The Participatory Research approach was utilized, specifically using the PRA and PPA method. This involved active collaboration between the researcher and the participants, allowing for a democratic and inclusive process of knowledge production and action. The discussion was structured around key themes related to poverty, health and illness and social exclusion.
- PRA is a participatory research approach that involves local communities in gathering and analyzing information about their needs, resources, and priorities. It aims to empower communities and promote their active involvement in decision-making processes. On the other hand, PPA is a participatory research method used to understand poverty from the perspective of the poor themselves, engaging with marginalized communities to identify and analyze the causes and consequences of poverty, as well as potential solutions. That is why researchers have chosen the PRA and PPA method for this particular study.
01. Findings
The findings section presents the main themes that emerged from the focus group discussion. It discusses the issues of poverty, human rights, and health and illness faced by the cleaners of DNCC. The causes and consequences of these issues are explored in detail, highlighting the systemic challenges and inequalities that contribute to their vulnerability. The discussion revealed several main themes related to the identified issues. These included:
👉 Lack of access to proper healthcare facilities
👉 Occupational hazards leading to physical ailments
👉 Inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices
👉 Limited or no access to safety equipment e.g. cloths, raincoats, hand gloves, face mask,etc.
👉 Highly affected by physical hazards e.g. road accidents, cuts, bruises, burns, injury etc.
👉 Highly affected by chemical hazards e.g. dermatitis, asthma, respiratory problems, ect.
👉 Highly affected by biological hazards e.g. hepatitis, tetanus, food poisoning, cystitis, etc.
👉 Lack of access personal protective equipment (PPEs)
02. Poverty:
👉 Low wages and irregular payment,.
👉 Limited opportunities for economic advancement.
👉 Dependence on informal work.
👉 No availability of bonus, pension, insurance, and allowances.
👉 Daily basis wages like day labor (deducts 575 TK for each day of absence).
👉 The recent increase in budget increased their sufferings to buy basic necessities.
👉 No financial support for health issues, deaths, road accidents or injuries.
👉 No availability of discounts in schools, hospitals and other places.
👉 No job opportunity for the family member of dead person due to road accident at work
👉 Not maintaining existing policies to make day labor permanent after 3 months of working
03. Human Rights:
👉 Lack of recognition and respect for their work.
👉 Discrimination and stigmatization based on occupation.
👉 Limited access to social protection and legal rights.
👉 Limited or no security of women as well as men.
👉 No security for the children and family of injured/dead person due to road accident at work.
👉 No security for late night women worker (majority suffered from sexual harassment).
👉 No leave on Eid, Puja, or other cultural event.
👉 No leave before childbirth during pregnancy.
👉 No weekly leave or holidays.
👉 Extra workloads during pandemic, epidemic e.g. Covid, dengue, etc.
04. Social Exclusion and Discrimination: Although social exclusion and discrimination has decreased then earlier. Still there are few concerns to outline.
👉 Marginalization and isolation from mainstream society.
👉 Limited social support networks.
👉 Discrimination based on gender, and socioeconomic status.
.👉 Discrimination on the health sector and private educational sector for their children.
05. Mental Health:
👉 Stress and anxiety due to challenging working conditions
👉 Lack of support and counseling services
👉 Stress and anxiety due to working late night
👉 Stress and anxiety due to keeping kids and toddlers home alone (in case of husband-wife both are cleaner).
Discussions
The discussions section summarizes and analyzes the findings, examining the interconnections between poverty, human rights, and health and illness among the DNCC cleaner community. It also examines the impact of these issues on the well-being and quality of life of sweepers. The findings highlight the mutual reinforcement of these issues and their impact on the overall well-being of the community.
Road cleaners who are working without proper safety equipment are facing a range of health issues due to their exposure to various hazards present in their work environment. Some of the health issues they might experience are: Respiratory Problems, Skin Irritations and Allergies, Eye Injuries, Chemical Exposure, Noise-Induced Hearing Loss, Musculoskeletal Problems, Heat-Related Illnesses, Infections and Disease, Psychological Impact etc. (Alamgir, 2020). Hence, it’s essential for employers and relevant authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of road cleaners by providing appropriate safety equipment, training, and regular health check-ups. Implementing safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of these health issues and ensure a safer working environment for road cleaners (Alamgir, 2020).
During the focus group discussion (FGD) with the DNCC sweepers community, several key findings were identified. The first finding relates to the challenges faced in terms of health and illness. Participants highlighted the lack of access to proper healthcare facilities, leading to untreated physical ailments. They also mentioned the occupational hazards they face and the need for adequate safety equipment such as clothes and raincoats. Additionally, inadequate sanitation and hygiene practices were reported, which further contributed to health issues.
The second finding revolves around poverty and human rights concerns. Participants shared their struggles with low wages and limited access to basic necessities. This situation leads to a cycle of poverty, making it difficult for them to escape their current circumstances. Furthermore, the community expressed concerns about discrimination and social exclusion, although they acknowledged some improvements in recent years.
Based on the findings, it is evident that the sweepers face multiple challenges that have significant consequences for their well-being and overall quality of life. The discussion highlighted the interplay between these issues and the need for comprehensive solutions. The findings also indicate that poverty is a complex issue influenced by various factors. Economic disparities, limited access to education and healthcare, physical and mental health issues and social exclusion contribute to the perpetuation of poverty. Participants emphasized the importance of addressing these underlying causes to effectively alleviate poverty. They also emphasized the need for inclusive social support systems and community-based initiatives to empower individuals and promote social change.
If we can ensure them a better, healthy life, we can live a healthy urban life. The authorities should focus on their existing issues and solve them to ensure a safe world for every inhabitant of the world.
Conclusion
The conclusion highlights the need for swift action to address the problems faced by Dhaka North City Corporation sweepers, emphasizing cooperation and group action among stakeholders. In order to address poverty, human rights, and health, a rights-based strategy and social justice are essential. Access to healthcare is restricted, there are workplace dangers, poor sanitation standards, poverty, and social marginalization. The community is made more vulnerable and marginalized as a result of these causes. The focus group discussion emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive approaches and teamwork among scholars, decision-makers, and community members to create and put into practice successful strategies to combat their sufferings.
Recommendation
Based on the findings, the following recommendations are proposed
01. Improving healthcare access: Efforts should be made to enhance the accessibility of healthcare facilities for the DNCC sweepers community. This can be achieved by establishing mobile clinics or providing free or subsidized healthcare services specifically tailored to their needs.
02. Occupational safety measures: It is crucial to provide the necessary safety equipment, such as cloths and raincoats, to protect the sweepers from occupational hazards. Regular training sessions on occupational safety and hygiene practices should also be conducted.
03. Enhancing sanitation practices: Awareness campaigns should be organized to promote proper sanitation and hygiene practices among the sweepers. This can include training sessions on waste management, personal hygiene, and the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
04. Poverty alleviation and human rights: Steps should be taken to address the issue of low wages and improve the overall living conditions of the DNCC sweepers. This can be achieved through initiatives like skill development programs, microfinance opportunities, and social support networks.
05. Combating discrimination and social exclusion: Efforts should be made to foster a more inclusive and accepting society. This can be achieved through awareness campaigns, community engagement programs, and promoting diversity and inclusion in various sectors.
References
01. Hossain, T. (2013, March 19). The sweepers: A socially excluded community. The Daily Star. https://www.thedailystar.net/news/the-sweepers-a-socially-excluded-community
02. Alamgir, H. M. (2020, September 25). Safety of cleaners, street sweepers and garbage collectors. The Financial Express. https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/views/views/safety-of-cleaners-street-sweepers-and-garbage-collectors-1601048893
03. Kabir, A., Farhana, N., Akter, F., Jesmin, S., & Ali, A. (2015). Sweeping practices, perceptions and knowledge about occupational safety and health hazards of street sweepers in Dhaka city, Bangladesh: a qualitative inquiry. International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, 237–243. https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20150476
04. Afroz, S. (2020). Women’s Compromise for Household Spaces in terms of the Physical Environment in Sweeper Colony of Pabna Municipality, Bangladesh. International Journal for Research in Applied Science and Engineering Technology, 8(11), 142–147. https://doi.org/10.22214/ijraset.2020.31952
05. Chowdhury, S. L. K. (2019). Traditional Profession and Livelihood: A Study on Sweeper Community. Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development, Vol.2(ISSN 2222-1700 (Paper)), 3. https://doi.org/10.7176/jesd
06. Wikipedia contributors. (2023b). Dhaka North City Corporation. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhaka_North_City_Corporation
07. Report, TBS. (2020, October 14). Govt fixes Tk600 as maximum daily wage. The Business Standard. https://www.tbsnews.net/economy/govt-fixes-tk600-maximum-daily-wage-145135 .
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: Consent Form of Focus Group
APPENDIX B: Focus Group Discussion Questions to Explore
👉 আপনারা আমাদের সমাজের পরিষ্কার পরিচ্ছন্নতার ক্ষেত্রে অনেক বড় ভূমিকা রাখেন। সারাদিন রোদ, ঝড়, বৃষ্টি, শব্দ, যানবাহন, ধোঁয়া, ময়লা, আবর্জনায় আপনাদের কাজ করা লাগে। এর ফলে আপনাদের কি কি ধরণের শারীরিক সমস্যা হয় ?
👉 যারা কাজ করছেন তাদের দীর্ঘমেয়াদি কোনো সমস্যা হয় কিনা? যেমন এজমা, কানে কম শোনা, ক্ষুধামন্দা, অনিদ্রা, মাথা বেথা বা অন্যান্য কোনো শারীরিক বা মানুষিক সমস্যা?
👉 প্রতিকূল পরিবেশে, নোংরা পরিবেশে, মহামারীতে বা যে কোনো গুরুতর পরিবেশে কাজ করার ক্ষেত্রে আপনাদের কি কোনো ধরণের পোশাক, মাস্ক, হ্যান্ড গ্লাভস, রেইনকোট, জুতা প্রদান করা হয়?
👉 এই খাতে কাজে নিয়োগের পূর্বে আপনাদের কি কোনো ধরণের ট্রেনিং প্রদান করা হয়? বা এই কাজ করলে কি কি ধরণের সমস্যায় পড়তে পারেন এই বিষয়ে কোনো সতর্কতা প্রদান করা হয়েছিল?
👉 সিটি কর্পোরেশন এর পরিচ্ছন্ন কর্মী হিসেবে সরকারি হাসপাতালে, স্কুলে বা সরকারি যে কোনো প্রতিষ্ঠানে কোনো সুযোগ সুবিধা প্রদান করা হয়? এসব জায়গায় আপনারা কতটুকু বৈষম্যের শিকার হন?
👉 আপনাদের যে পরিমান বেতন দেয়া হয় এতে করে কি আপনাদের সংসার খরচ চলে বা এই আয়ে বর্তমান মূল্যস্ফীতির ক্ষেত্রে কুতকুটু খাপ খাওয়ানো যাচ্ছে? এছাড়া আপনাদের যেই আয় তার ফলে আর্থিক ভাবেও কি কি ধরণের সমস্যা হয়?
👉 রাস্তা ঘটে কাজ করার ক্ষেত্রে প্রায়শই শোনা যায় সিটি কর্পোরেশন এর একজন কর্মচারী সড়ক দুর্ঘটনার শিকার হয়েছে, অনেকে সড়ক দুর্ঘটনার ফলে মারাত্মক ভাবে ক্ষতিগ্রস্থ হয় বা মারাও যায়। এতো ঝুঁকিপূর্ণ কাজ করার পরে আপনাদের যদি কোনো প্রকার বড় ধরণের সমস্যায় পড়তে হয় তাহলে আপনারা সরকারি ভাবে কতটুকু সহায়তা পান?
👉 আপনাদের কোন কোন ধরণের আর্থিক সাপোর্ট দেয়া হয় (চিকিৎসা খাতে, হেলথ ইন্সুরেন্স, অনুদান, ভাতা, কেউ মারা গেলে পারিবারিক সাপোর্ট)?
👉এই খাতে কাজ করার সময় সীমা কত? এই সময় সীমা অতিক্রমের পর কি আপনাদের পেনশন দেয়া হয় অথবা অন্য কোনো সুযোগ সুবিধা প্রদান করা হয়?
👉 আপনাদের এই সমস্যাগুলো কিভাবে সমাধান করা যায় বলে আপনারা মনে করেন? এই ক্ষেত্রে সরকারের করণীয় কি? আঞ্চলিক নির্বাহী কর্মকর্তা বা ঢাকা উত্তর সিটি কর্পোরেশন এর মেয়রের করণীয় কি? আপনাদের করণীয় কি?
APPENDIX C: Participants Details
| SL | Name | Age | Sex | Working Period (in years) | Work Status (Scaled/Daily Basis) | Zone | Ward | Metital Status | Qualification |
| 1 | MD Kajol Hasan Lipu | 38 | M | 12 | Daily basis | 2 | 8 | Married | 5 |
| 2 | Shilpi Akter | 35 | F | 8 | Daily basis | 2 | 5 | Married | 5 |
| 3 | Aklima Begum | 42 | F | 12 | Daily basis | 4 | 12 | Married | N/A |
| 4 | Mst Mukta Akter | 42 | F | 15 | Daily basis | 2 | 2 | Married | 5 |
| 5 | Mohammad Siddik Molla | 53 | M | 18 | Daily basis | 4 | 9 | Married | N/A |
| 6 | MD Abul Kashem Babul | 49 | M | 20 | Daily basis | 4 | 10 | Married | N/A |
| 7 | Mst Fatema Nasrin | 39 | F | 13 | Daily basis | 2 | 15 | Married | N/A |
| 8 | Nipa Akter | 37 | F | 7 | Daily basis | 4 | 12 | Married | 5 |
| 9 | MD Liton Miya | 48 | M | 14 | Daily basis | 4 | 14 | Married | N/A |
| 10 | Akhi Akter Lipi | 47 | F | 19 | Daily basis | 4 | 11 | Married | 3 |
| 11 | Arafat Hossain | 42 | M | 17 | Daily basis | 2 | 7 | Married | N/A |
| 12 | Shefali Begum | 50 | F | 21 | Daily basis | 2 | 4 | Married | N/A |
APPENDIX D: Waste Facts of DNCC from Waste Management Report
APPENDIX E: Conducted FGD Details, Comments and Recommendation from Participants to Improve the FGD
Moderator/Researcher: Zakia Sultana Sanam
Date: 26th August, 2023
Day: Saturday
Time: 6:30 PM to 8:22 PM
Location: City Colony Road, Shah Ali Bagh, Mirpur-1, Dhaka North City Corporation, Zone-4, Ward-12, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Duration: ≈112 minutes
No of Participants: 12
No of Questions: 10
Comments and Recommendation from Participants to Improve the FGD: You are welcome to join us for a more extensive talk. Here, there is a community association. All meetings of the City Corporation are held in this association. If you have these discussions in the presence of our DNCC president, you will learn more. It will be a bit of a hassle for you to take all the notes alone, so you can also bring some other individuals, your friends, journalists, or researchers with you to talk with us all.
Learnings and Outcomes (Self-reflection):
👉 Acquired practical skills in undertaking FGDs and qualitative research methodologies.
👉 Learned about the specific problems of the marginalized urban worker and how it is systemically contributed to.
👉 Improved abilities in the facilitation of discussions in groups for comprehensive perspectives from participants.
👉 Enhanced ability to identify and analyze policy gaps leading to vulnerability, particularly in reference to social and economic inequality.
👉 Improved capacity to translate research findings into actionable recommendations for improvements in policy and practice.
👉 Learned about the group polarization in cases of marginalized communities and how such phenomenon adversely impacts the social and economic status of the group.