BRAC Skills Development Programme

As Bangladesh navigates rapid industrial growth and digital transformation, integrating emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning into the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system is becoming increasingly crucial. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, the country's GDP growth stood at 6.94% in the fiscal year 2020-2021, despite the global economic slowdown caused by the pandemic 1 . Modernising the education system is essential not only to sustain this growth but also to build a workforce ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow's industries. But how do we blend these new technologies with traditional TVET models, and how can we foster industry collaboration to ensure both cost-sharing and the creation of highly skilled manpower? Industry 4.0 and the New Face of TVET With the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) reshaping economies globally, Bangladesh's TVET system must evolve to keep pace with ...

Digital Presence of Bangladeshi Youth In Bangladesh, the digital presence of youth has become a powerful tool for both activism and skills development. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are no longer just for social connection; they are key spaces where young people advocate for change and express themselves. According to The Daily Star, individuals aged 15-29 make up approximately 27.96% of the total population. This demographic is increasingly using social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to express their opinions, connect with peers, and advocate for change. By the end of 2022, social media usage among the 18 to 24 age group in Bangladesh, increased significantly. Facebook had the largest user base in this demographic, with 21.7 million users. Messenger also saw substantial engagement, with 20.2 million users. Instagram and LinkedIn had smaller but notable user bases, with 2.63 million and 3 million users respectively. These platf...

We have conducted a comprehensive Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with 125 participants from five Career Hub centres across Bangladesh: Khulna, Rangpur, Sylhet, Chattogram, and Cox’s Bazar. The goal was to assess their evolving career aspirations amidst socio-political instability, the challenges they face in securing employment, and their expectations from the job market. The participants, comprising fresh and unemployed graduates, have shifted their career goals significantly in response to changes in the job market. A key finding from the discussions is that over 60% to 70% of participants now prefer private-sector jobs over government roles. They cited reasons such as better financial rewards, rapid promotion based on merit, skill development opportunities, career transition opportunities, and inclusive work cultures​​. This shift is primarily driven by the instability in government recruitment processes, marred by delays, often corruption, and intense competition. Despite the growin...

Bangladesh, a nation striving for progress amidst a complex web of socio-economic and political challenges, recognises the urgent need for comprehensive peacebuilding strategies. The recent political unrest, coupled with the protracted Rohingya refugee crisis in Cox's Bazar, underscores the fragility of social cohesion and the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict. By empowering individuals with marketable skills and enhancing their employability, skills development can contribute to economic growth, social inclusion, and ultimately, a more peaceful and harmonious society. The Current Context: Challenges and Opportunities Despite a 5.8% GDP growth rate in 2023, the country’s economic progress remains vulnerable and is threatened by persistent challenges. The recent political turmoil, marked by protests and violence, highlights the fragility of democratic institutions and the urgent need for inclusive governance. The country's education system often fails to provi...