Since 2015, the B-SkillFUL programme has been supporting skills training, with job placements, in 19 occupations by partnering with local private training service providers in six districts, across Bangladesh.

The second four-year phase of the programme, launched on September 1, will focus on skills building and strengthening of businesses, as a contribution to economic recovery at the local level, in the current COVID-19 context, said the Embassy on Thursday.

It will offer customised solutions to SMEs to improve technical and management functions, diversify products and services, expand into new markets and ensure safe and decent working conditions for workers.

Suzanne Mueller, the Chargée d’affaires of the Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh, said having a more skilled workforce is only part of the solution for SMEs.

"Currently, survival and recovery are their top priorities. Through programmes, like B-SkillFUL, Switzerland will support the domestic economy, as it tackles the challenges, brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The total Swiss contribution to the B-SkillFUL programme currently stands at around CHF 13.5 million."

Through its agency for international cooperation, SDC, Switzerland’s overall goal in Bangladesh is to bring about a more equitable society that enjoys inclusive and sustainable growth, aligned with the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations.

Within the framework of its international cooperation for the period 2018-21, Switzerland focuses on its engagement on economic development, more efficient local government and better protection for migrant workers.

Swisscontact is a Swiss NGO working globally to implement international development programmes to promote inclusive economic, social and ecological development to make an effective contribution towards sustainable and widespread prosperity in developing and emerging economies.

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