PM directs unified training curriculum across ministries

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed the authorities to introduce a unified curriculum and certification system for training programmes run by different ministries to ensure that the country's workforce meets the demands of domestic and international labour markets.

He gave the directive while chairing the third meeting of the governing body of the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) at the Prime Minister's Office in Dhaka's Tejgaon today (19 September).

The prime minister said the NSDA has an important role to play in developing skilled human resources and ensuring that training programmes are aligned with labour market demand.

"It is also an important platform for increasing demand for Bangladesh's skilled workforce in the international labour market," he said.

Tarique stressed the need to strengthen skills development among the country's youth, noting that different ministries currently operate numerous training programmes.

However, a lack of coordination among these programmes often limits the effectiveness and recognition of the training and certificates, he said.

"As a result, our young people are not receiving the expected recognition at the national and international levels for these certificates," the prime minister said.

He instructed the NSDA governing body to form a small committee to formulate the necessary policies within a short period.

The policies will seek to bring skills development and training programmes run by different ministries under a coordinated framework.

Tarique also called for training and certification to be based on a unified curriculum.

"If a unified and internationally recognised training and certification system can be introduced, it will not only enhance the skills of the country's youth but also increase their acceptance and recognition in national and international labour markets," he said.

At the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on the NSDA's administrative structure, manpower and functions.

The meeting also discussed national skills development policies and strategies, including ways to develop skilled human resources based on domestic and international labour market demand.

Officials also reviewed sector-wise skills demand analysis and short-, medium- and long-term action plans.

Improving the quality of training and certification and establishing mutual recognition of certificates were also discussed.