VAB was established in 1998 by Non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) in the USA to help the poorest children in rural Bangladesh to gain quality education and skills training. VAB raises funds from NRBs and their American friends through its head office in New York and implements programs on quality secondary education in Bangladesh through its office in Dhaka. VAB is a non-profit charity registered in New York and Bangladesh.

VAB supports Bangladesh’s public and secular education system. Individual programs have been developed within the framework of a multi-faceted and integrated Model for Quality Education in Rural Bangladesh, commonly known as the VAB Model. Individual programs include scholarships and tutoring help to students, teachers’ training, providing school equipment, and promoting linkages between schools and local communities. The programs in the Model improve test scores, lower dropout rates, and ultimately provide opportunities to obtain a better standard of living for students. VAB scholarship holders have shown success in accessing further studies and gaining employment both in Bangladesh and abroad.

VAB works in partnership with rural high schools, teachers, parents, community members, students and former students to create purpose, community ownership and an active desire to improve the quality of education children receive.