Dhaka: The SICIP-PKSF project has officially commenced with the objective of transforming underprivileged and backward communities into skilled manpower, ensuring their sustainable employment through modern industrial demand-based technical training. Under this three-year project, 12,000 youth across the country will receive training free-of-charge, as announced in a press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, 30 percent of the trainees will be women, with the remaining 70 percent prioritizing youth from low-income families and marginalized areas. The project offers training in 12 trades, covering accommodation and food expenses. Post-training, necessary support will be provided for both self- and wage-based employment, leveraging the skills acquired.
These details were shared during the formal inauguration of the PKSF segment of the Skills for Industry Competitiveness and Innovation Program (SICIP) at the PKSF Bhaban. PKSF has also entered agreements with partner training institutions under the project, supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Finance Secretary Dr. Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder, the National Program Director of SICIP, served as the chief guest, praising PKSF's skill development initiatives. He noted that upon the project's successful completion, the government would extend further support to PKSF. He emphasized the demand for skilled workers abroad, suggesting PKSF and its partners can significantly contribute to the state's skilled manpower development efforts.
Additional Secretary and Executive Program Director of SICIP, Mohammed Walid Hossain, highlighted PKSF's tradition and values, expressing confidence in the efficient implementation of the 12 trades nationwide. He also mentioned arranging advanced training abroad to enhance trainers' quality.
PKSF Chairman Zakir Ahmed Khan stressed the importance of utilizing Bangladesh's demographic advantage by creating skilled manpower. He asserted that the SICIP-PKSF project would support various government initiatives aimed at workforce development.
PKSF Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader noted that over two million young individuals enter the labor market annually, posing both a challenge and opportunity. Reflecting this reality, the Bangladesh government emphasizes skill development, which PKSF has identified as a core strategy in its 'Strategic Plan 2025-2030.'
PKSF Additional Managing Director Mohammad Jashim Uddin addressed the need for training an additional 8,500 individuals, focusing on those with special needs, ethnic minorities, and the third gender. Additionally, training plans for 2,000 orphans and abandoned youth are under consideration. He assured ongoing support in capital, technology, and market linkage for the trainees.
Senior General Manager Md Ziauddin Iqbal presented a brief overview of the project during the event. Previously, PKSF successfully trained 38,633 individuals under the SEIP project, the precursor to the SICIP-PKSF initiative.