SETU, a leading NGO was formed in 1983 aiming to work for the disadvantaged and poor people who were socially weak, politically neglected and economically vulnerable. SETU's development effort primarily concentrates on organizing and mobilizing the downtrodden people of the society, so that they can speak for themselves, act as conscious and assertive members in their groups, communities, even in local, national and global context.

Virtually, SETU has been equipped in a way to take and/or undertake right based challenging initiatives. Its particular expertise, which it has developed on the issues of globalization, WTO, rights and good governance, youth animation and social justice, CSO accountability etc. aiming at contributing its micro macro impact which have been gained from its past work experiences.

With these perceptions in mind, SETU:i) Encourages the formation of local groups of under-privileged and distressed people and develops in them a sense of co-operation among them. ii) Assists them to understand the causes of their poverty and how to overcome these causes/problems.iii) Assists Government’s drives for attaining self-sufficiency by the neglected and distressed people of the society.

iv) Assists the above target groups to find gainful job opportunities for them.

Legal Status:

SETU has been standing on legal footing all through. It has the following legal status with the Govt. and international organizations:

• Registration No. under voluntary welfare agencies (Registrtion & control) Ordinance, 1961: No. Kushtia-10/86, Dated: 17.02.1986.
• Registration no. under the foreign donation (voluntary activities) regulation rules, 1978: No. DSS/FDO/R-240, Dated: 05.10.1987.
• Tax ordinance 1984, TIN No. 412-400-0094/KC-2, Khulna. Dated: 12.01.2003

Management :

SETU has got a Governing Board for its policy-making and overall functioning, headed by a Chairman. The Chief Executive Officer of the Organization is designated as the Executive Director.