Dhaka: UCEP Bangladesh has launched a comprehensive skills development programme designed to empower the gender-diverse community and young people affected during the July 2024 movement. The initiative aims to create employment opportunities, restore dignity, and promote social inclusion through technical and vocational education.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the programme was inaugurated in Dhaka by Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid, who served as the chief guest. The event also saw the presence of Social Welfare Secretary Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf and Department of Social Services Director General Md. Saidur Rahman Khan as special guests, with UCEP Chairperson Dr. Ubaidur Rob chairing the event.
During the event, guests toured various training programmes, including courses in caregiving, Japanese language, and graphic design. They also officially opened UCEP’s newly established Women’s Corner. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on June 30 between the Ministry of Social Welfare and UCEP Bangladesh was highlighted during the occasion. The MoU aims to provide skills training and job placements for 200 youths affected by the anti-discrimination and anti-quota movement.
Adviser Murshid commended the initiative, describing it as ‘a step toward ensuring dignity, inclusion, and equal participation in the nation’s progress.’ Secretary Abu Yusuf praised the programme as ‘highly commendable’ and called for its expansion, while UCEP Chairperson Dr. Rob reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to inclusive development.
Dr. Md. Abdul Karim, UCEP Executive Director, emphasized that the programme is focused on ‘restoring dignity and ensuring no group is left behind.’ The event, attended by government officials, development partners, civil society representatives, trainees, and media, underscored a strong commitment to inclusive growth and empowerment.