Gazipur, Bangladesh – UCEP Bangladesh, in collaboration with Standard Chartered Bank, has launched a groundbreaking initiative called “Giving Wings to Dreams for Youth Empowerment Programme” under Futuremakers by Standard Chartered, the Bank’s flagship global community initiative. This transformative project aims to provide skills training, mid-level management opportunities, and entrepreneurship development to 2,000 beneficiaries through various training programs. Notably, the project places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, with a target of 50% female representation and 2% representation of persons with disabilities among the beneficiaries.
The grand project launch ceremony took place on June 18 at the UCEP TVET Institute in Gazipur, with the honorable presence of Md. Zahid Ahsan Russel, MP, State Minister for Youth and Sports, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Dr. Md Abdul Karim, the executive director of UCEP Bangladesh and former principal secretary to the Prime Minister, delivered a warm welcome address, highlighting the successful partnership between UCEP Bangladesh and Standard Chartered Bank. He underscored the tremendous impact this collaboration has had in uplifting underprivileged youth and communities, promoting skills-based education, and fostering socio-economic development throughout Bangladesh.
Naser Ezaz Bijoy, the chief executive officer of Standard Chartered Bangladesh, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative. He recognized Gazipur as a key industrial hub, home to over 3,000 factories, and a crucial driver of Bangladesh’s resilient progress. Bijoy emphasized that the meticulously designed training programs, developed through extensive consultation with public and private sectors and based on comprehensive gap analysis, will empower the youth while addressing the skilled workforce needs of Gazipur’s industries. He regarded this partnership as a prime example of how the private sector, development sector, and the government are working together harmoniously to achieve shared goals of progress and prosperity for the nation.
Among the distinguished guests present at the event were Zahida Ispahani, vice chairperson of the UCEP Board of Governors, Dr. Ubaidur Rob, former chairperson of the UCEP Board of Governors, and other esteemed personalities.
The “Giving Wings to Dreams for Youth Empowerment Programme” will be implemented within the Gazipur District, with a strong focus on creating sustainable change within the local community. Spanning from May 2023 to April 2025, this ambitious project holds the promise of a brighter future for thousands of underprivileged individuals who will benefit from its comprehensive initiatives.
Through demand-driven training, participants will acquire skills that align with current and future job market demands, significantly enhancing their employability. Moreover, they will have the opportunity to undergo assessments conducted by the Bangladesh Technical Education Board (BTEB) and the National Skills Development Authority, based on the National Technical & Vocational Qualification Framework (NTVQF) level. Graduates of the program will further benefit from a dedicated job placement program that aims to facilitate their successful reintegration into the economy.
The launch of this youth empowerment program signifies the unwavering commitment of UCEP Bangladesh and Standard Chartered Bank in creating a positive impact in Gazipur District and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of Bangladesh. By equipping underprivileged youth and adults with essential skills, the project aspires to transform them into skilled human resources, improve their socio-economic status, and play a pivotal role in the nation’s growth.
As the “Giving Wings to Dreams for Youth Empowerment Programme” unfolds over the course of the next few years, it is expected to act as a catalyst for positive change, unlocking the potential of underprivileged youth in Gazipur and creating a pathway toward a prosperous and inclusive