BRAC Skill Development Programme in partnership with Citi Foundation has launched the Career Hub in the port city on 27th of May at the International Convention Centre, Chattogram to bridge the gap between jobseekers and employers.
BRAC identified the need for a service for youth that will not only prepare youth for employment, but also work as a career pathway guide so that youth are able to choose the right career path. From the employers’ perspective/side, there is also a constant need for skilled workers, so both job seekers and employers need comprehensive assistance. Keeping this in mind, BRAC began its career hub journey in 2020, in locations like Rangpur and Sylhet to operationalize the initiative. An online platform was also introduced so that it can complement the physical centres in future with a wider youth reach. This year BRAC launched its third Career Hub in Chattogram. This year, 2 other hubs will be established in Cox’s Bazaar and Khulna with an aim to learn more about employability issues around available jobs and how youth can be better supported to secure jobs that they aspire for.
The main objective of the Career Hub is to create awareness about the employability skills young people need to acquire for decent employment, connect employers with skilled youths, equip youth with employable skills and highlight the benefits such career hub services can bring to both the jobseekers and employers.
Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury, M. P., deputy minister for education attended the event as the chief guest. Dr. Md. Aminur Rahaman, ndc, divisional commissioner, Chattogram; Md. Moinul Huq, country officer of Citi Bank NA, and Dr. Shireen Akhter, Vice Chancellor, University of Chittagong were present as special guests.
The programme started with the inaugural speech of K. A. M. Morshed, senior director, advocacy, innovation, and MEAL, BRAC. Tasmiah Tabassum Rahman, associate director of BRAC Skills Development Programme, outlined the Career Hub and its transformative impact on youth empowerment.
Deputy minister for education Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury, M. P. said, “A disparity exists between the skills and education acquired through university and the skills demanded by the job market. With this gap, relying solely on a university degree becomes insufficient to secure decent jobs. Thus, it becomes imperative for us to proactively acquire both industry-specific and soft skills and equip ourselves accordingly.”
Vice chancellor of University of Chittagong Dr. Shireen Akhter said, “Students must get ready to equip themselves with essential skills. I firmly believe you can contribute to building a SMART Bangladesh. Instead of solely seeking employment, strive to create opportunities that provide jobs to others.”
Divisional commissioner Dr. Md. Aminur Rahaman, ndc, said, “I passionately believe that the youth will navigate the vessel of a SMART Bangladesh, and Career Hub will guide them in their preparations for this noble endeavor.”
Senior director of BRAC K. A. M. Morshed said, “The fourth industrial revolution heralds a new era where skills in multiple domains will be required, and therefore, it is imperative for the youths to pick up new skills for their desired career paths. Career Hub is all about a club where you will be able to learn new skills, get prepared for the job market, and most importantly, it will help you get the desired jobs. Career Hub will be starting from tomorrow to align with the government’s agenda for SMART Bangladesh.”
Citi Country Officer, Citibank, N. A., Bangladesh Md. Moinul Huq said, “To fully harness the power of our diverse population and benefit from demographic advantages, it’s crucial to equip ourselves with the necessary skills. Developing specific abilities is the key to unlocking the true potential of our human resources and maximizing the benefits of demographic dividends.”
