StanChart, UCEP to empower 2,000 vulnerable youths

UCEP Bangladesh, in collaboration with Standard Chartered Bank, has launched "Giving Wings to Dreams for Youth Empowerment Programme" under Futuremakers by Standard Chartered, the Bank's flagship global community initiative.

The project will provide skills training, mid-level management, and entrepreneurship development opportunities to 2,000 beneficiaries through various training programmes, says a press release.

The project prioritises inclusivity with a target of 50% female representation and 2% representation of persons with disabilities among the beneficiaries. By equipping underprivileged youth and adults with essential skills, the project aims to transform them into skilled human resources, improve their socio-economic status, and contribute to the overall growth of Bangladesh.

The project launch ceremony took place at the UCEP TVET Institute in Gazipur on Sunday.

Md. Zahid Ahsan Russel, MP, State Minister for Youth and Sports, graced the occasion as the chief guest.

Dr Md Abdul Karim, executive director of UCEP Bangladesh and former principal secretary to the Prime Minister, delivered the welcome address, emphasising the successful partnership between Standard Chartered Bank and UCEP Bangladesh.

Naser Ezaz Bijoy, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, "Gazipur, a key industrial hub and home to over 3,000 factories, is one of the key drivers of Bangladesh's resilient progress. The training programmes, designed in close consultation with the public and private sectors and based on our own gap analysis, will empower the youth and at the same time increase the supply of skilled workforce for the industries of Gazipur, helping catalyse the next chapter of growth."

Zahida Ispahani, Vice Chairperson, UCEP Board of Governors, Dr Ubaidur Rob, Former Chairperson, UCEP Board of Governors, and other distinguished guests were present at the programme.