SDP Interventions

 Skills Training for Advancing Resources (STAR)


The STAR programme uses the traditional apprenticeship (ostad-shagred) model to offer free skills training in Bangladesh’s informal sector. Apprentices receive six months of training under Master Craftspersons (MCPs), gaining trade-specific and soft skills with a focus on social inclusion. Launched in 2012 by BRAC Skills Programme, the programme targets adolescents aged 14-18 from disadvantaged households who have been out of school for at least a year. Developed in collaboration with ILO, UNICEF, and Bangladesh’s Bureau of Non-Formal Education (BNFE), STAR adheres to child labour laws and discourages school dropouts, aiming to create a skilled, employable workforce.

Promoting Business Incubation for Small Entrepreneurs (PROMISE)




PROMISE supports young entrepreneurs in Bangladesh to successfully develop their businesses. Its goal is to create decent employment opportunities through the establishment of youth-led enterprises in local communities. The PROMISE intervention helps improve working conditions at micro, small, and medium enterprises by strengthening value chains, management, band business capacity, and expanding employment pools by creating skilled human resources.

Promoting Skill and Productivity Enhancement for Resilience (PROSPER)



PROSPER operates on a cost-recovery model, offering affordable apprenticeship-based training designed to improve the economic conditions of trainees. Interested learners pay a fee to acquire the skills needed for a specific trade. Trainees complete a three-month apprenticeship under the guidance of a Master Craftsperson (MCP).

Partnering Reinforcement for Integrated Skills Enhancement (PRISE)



PRISE adopts the apprenticeship model to enhance craftsmanship through partnership with local NGOs. These NGOs, in turn, train individuals to develop a skilled workforce.


BRAC Institute of Skills Development (BRAC ISD)




BRAC ISD, launched in 2017, aligns with the National Skill Development Policy 2011 to offer market-driven skills training across sectors like construction, hospitality, RMG, IT, graphic design, and electrical engineering. As a registered training organization, BRAC ISD provides National Technical Vocational Qualification Framework (NTVQF) training for youth. With an 81% employment rate for graduates, BRAC ISD’s alumni secure jobs both in Bangladesh and internationally.

Career Hub




Career Hub is an innovative platform by the BRAC Skills Development Programme, designed to connect job seekers with employers. As part of BRAC’s 2021-2025 strategic goals, Career Hub supports the creation of a skilled workforce by offering career-related information, counseling, and guidance. The platform aligns job seekers' skills, expectations, and aspirations with available job opportunities. It also provides insights into career pathways, the job market, employment prospects, and future demands, while connecting skills development opportunities to relevant industries. Career Hub serves as a comprehensive solution for both youth and employers in the labor market.Success Stories

Name: Rabeya Akhter
Age: 18+
Location: Anandabazar, Sonargaon, Dhaka
Intervention: BRAC ISD
Trade: Mobile Phone Servicing


Empowered Through Skills: Rabeya’s Journey to Independence

“I used to rely on my husband for everything, even the smallest expenses. Now, I can manage my own finances, support my family, and inspire others to do the same. It feels incredible to take charge of my life.”

Rabeya Akhter, 18, from Anandabazar, Dhaka, was forced to leave school after 8th grade due to financial struggles. Married at 15 and a young mother, she dreamed of a better future for her family. Breaking societal norms, Rabeya chose mobile phone servicing—a field uncommon for women in her community.

She completed BRAC’s Mobile Phone Servicing training, gaining both technical and business skills. Now earning 4,000 taka per month, Rabeya manages her finances, contributes to her family, and saves for the future.


Initially hesitant, her husband now proudly supports her success. Rabeya has become a role model, inspiring other women in her community. She dreams of opening her own repair shop and empowering women to take control of their lives.


Name: Fatema Akter Sonia
Age: 18+
Location: DIT Road, Badda, Dhaka
Intervention: PROMISE
Trade: Tailoring



Fatema Akter Sonia’s story is one of resilience and determination. Despite a life-changing accident that left her with a disability and caused her to lose her hair at a young age, Sonia has turned her challenges into opportunities. With her mother’s support, Sonia’s tailoring business has grown, and she now handles larger orders.

As the second child in a family of five, Sonia had to stop her education after her HSC exams to support her family. She began working alongside her mother, making dresses for women and children. However, she realized they needed more skills to grow their small business.

Through BRAC’s PROMISE intervention, Sonia joined a three-month training course, which not only improved her sewing skills but also taught her how to manage and scale a business. "The training changed my life," Sonia says.

Now, Sonia and her mother earn around 10,000 taka monthly. Her journey proves that with the right support, women—especially those with disabilities—can overcome barriers and create a better future.

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