In 2016, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment launched a project to construct Technical Training Centers (TTCs) in 40 upazilas, aiming to create a skilled workforce for local and foreign labor markets. However, due to a lack of manpower and equipment, these TTCs are currently unable to train even a third of the targeted candidates. Experts emphasize the need for skilled trainers and modern curriculums to make the workforce compatible with international job markets. Most training programs in Bangladesh do not align with the requirements of foreign labor markets.

The Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET) is responsible for implementing the TTC project in 40 upazilas. Initially budgeted at BDT 13.31 billion, the project’s timeline was extended to June 2022, raising costs to BDT 16.67 billion. Subsequently, the duration was extended by two years without increasing the budget. In the latest extension, the project was prolonged to June 2025, with costs estimated at BDT 15.87 billion.

The project’s goal is to provide annual training in 10 trades/courses to 46,140 individuals across 40 TTCs, equipping unemployed individuals for both local and foreign labor demands. The project aims to enhance productivity in industrial sectors and improve product quality through this trained workforce.

By 2023, operations had begun at 37 TTCs under the project. TTCs in Chitalmari, Bagerhat, and Barlekha, Moulvibazar are awaiting inauguration, though training activities are ongoing. Only the Habiganj Sadar TTC has not begun operations, as its infrastructure is incomplete.

BMET data shows that from July to September 2023, only 13,305 individuals received skill enhancement training across 39 TTCs—less than a third of the target. Meanwhile, 153,000 individuals received Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO) training, a mandatory three-day program to prepare migrant workers before leaving the country. This high PDO training rate suggests that most individuals go abroad without adequate skill training in their respective fields, hindering the TTCs from achieving their intended goals at the upazila level.

These TTCs are meant to offer around 10 types of courses, including electronics, electrical, garment, civil construction, IT support (computer operation and graphic design), refrigeration and air conditioning, machine tool operation, auto mechanics, auto driving, and welding and fabrication. However, most TTCs are conducting training only in two or three trades, such as computer operation, motor driving, electrical work, and garments.

According to BMET sources, no permanent staff has been hired for these TTCs, even two years after their inception. The training activities are currently conducted by personnel from older TTCs.

Sources indicate that around 3,400 positions across 25 categories are required for 40 Technical Training Centers (TTCs). Among these, 190 posts, including principal, instructor, cashier, hostel supervisor, and office assistant roles, have been approved under the revenue budget. An additional 210 positions are awaiting approval from the Secretary Committee. However, none of the 190 approved posts since March 2022 have been filled. Furthermore, no posts have been created for 40 deputy principals, 1,680 instructors, or 320 support staff, leaving TTCs without permanent staff even after two years of operation.

Reports reveal that TTCs in Dashmina, Chitalmari, Mohonpur, Fenchuganj, Chandpur, Habiganj, Daudkandi, Gournadi, Barlekha, and Ramu are operating with only one instructor each, while others have between two and six instructors at most.

Project Director Md. Saiful Haque Chowdhury told Bonik Barta, “Due to economic constraints, we received a limited budget, and funds were not disbursed on time. As a result, we couldn’t initiate tenders promptly. Equipment for five trades has reached the TTCs.”

He added, “Currently, three courses are operational at most centers. Once equipment for machine tools operation, civil construction, and welding and fabrication arrive, six to seven additional trades will be launched. The primary challenge has been securing instructors in time despite having the equipment. The courses are being conducted by instructors from older TTCs or through guest lectures. Many of the positions we requested from the Public Administration and Finance Division were not approved, meaning we lack complete personnel set up despite having the machinery.”

Saiful Haque Chowdhury noted, “The project was delayed due to economic, political, and COVID-19 factors. However, every trainee from our operational TTCs has secured employment, which is encouraging. We hope grassroots communities will benefit once permanent staffing is in place.”

Migration and refugee expert Asif Munir told Bonik Barta, “In recent years, we’ve seen an emphasis on structural improvements, especially visible ones, which is also reflected in the migration sector. Decentralizing training centers is a positive step, but we must decentralize the entire system.”

He added, “Many aspiring migrants are unaware of the specific training they need. The primary issue is the lack of modern-minded instructors. The methods and curriculums they use are outdated and not suited for foreign labor markets. Although some international organizations and NGOs have developed training manuals, there aren’t skilled instructors who can deliver them. Additionally, instructors lack adequate technological expertise.”