United News of Bangladesh

With the rising incidents of violence against young girls to aged women, learning self-defense has become essential. Dhaka hosts several martial arts training centers where girls and women can learn practical techniques of judo, karate, kung fu, etc. These disciplines are effectively aligned with real-life self-defense scenarios. Let’s take a closer look at the leading institutes that provide a supportive environment for women to learn essential safety skills. Top 10 Martial Arts Training Centers for Women in Dhaka . KO Fight Studio The Bangladesh branch of the world-renowned Karate Organization, ShinKyokushinKai, operates under the name of this institute. The training center prioritizes mastering the Japanese Kyokushin Karate style. Shihan Abdullah Mohammad Hossain, a 4th Dan black belt (4th degree black belt holder), is the organization’s executive director and head instructor. KO Fight Studio’s curriculum includes master striking, escape techniques, and de-escalation skills, all of which are crucial for real-life situations. The sessions span a minimum of 8 weeks, consisting of 16 classes, each lasting 2 hours. The admission fee is BDT 2,000, with a monthly fee of BDT 4,000. Address: Level-4, Building No. 19-20, Road-113/A, Gulshan (next to Shahabuddin Medical) Contact Link: https://www.facebook.com/KOFSDhaka/ Read more: Martial Arts Belts: Everything You Need to Know About Their Color and Significance Chinese Kung Fu and Wushu School This school focuses on the traditional Chinese martial arts of Wushu and Kung Fu, with an emphasis on modern adaptations such as Sanda, Taolu, and Wing Chun. The school was founded by Master Abdullah Al Monsur, a highly skilled martial artist. Chinese Kung Fu and Wushu School offers training in striking, grappling, weaponry, and hybrid martial arts. Students are taught techniques from boxing, karate, Muay Thai, Kenpo, judo, Aikido, Sumo, and wrestling, alongside weapons training in Kendo, fencing, and Iaido. The courses emphasize physical strength, mental health, focus, and discipline. An online option for Kung Fu classes is also available for students participating from home. Main Branches: Bhaban-58, Road-5, Block-F, Aftabnagar, Badda. Additional branches are located in Dhanmondi, Gulshan, Banani, Bashundhara, and Uttara. Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wushubd Sobhan Karate Academy Catering to trainees aged 5 to 65, this academy boasts a membership where over 80% are women. The training features the globally recognized Shotokan Karate style. The admission fee is BDT 5,000 for all, while the monthly fee is BDT 3,000 for students and BDT 4,000 for professionals. Sobhan Karate Academy features a specialized 9-month defensive tactics course, which costs BDT 40,000, including the admission fee. The initial month’s fee is BDT 10,000 for students and BDT 11,000 for professionals. Address: Russian Cultural Center, House No. 510, Road 7, Dhanmondi Website Link: https://www.sobhankarateacademy.com/ Read more: Best Martial Arts for Women: Know the purposes, risks, requirements Martial Art BD This training institute is led by internationally certified experts, including Sensei Nazmun Sahadath. He is a 4th Dan and national karate judge affiliated with the Bangladesh Karate Federation. Martial Art BD offers programs in general karate and bodybuilding, promoting long-term health. Updated details about course schedules and fees are available on its website. Website Link: https://martialartbd.com/ Address: 15/G Jigatola, Dhanmondi, (Sundarban Courier Building). Additional branches are located in Lalmatia and Shonir Akhra. HORDE MMA & Martial Arts Academy Founded by 4th Dan Black Belt holder Sensei Kim Yanez, HORDE MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) & Martial Arts Academy specializes in combining karate with kickboxing. It incorporates the world-famous No-Gi Submission Grappling technique to overcome the opponent. Classes are offered from 9 AM to 8 PM, and course details can be obtained through their Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/HordeMMA/Main Branch Address: House-34, Sonarganj Janpath, Sector-11, Uttara, (Opposite Zamzam Tower) Read more: Best Martial Arts For Fitness Martial Arts Stars Academy Established in 1992, Martial Arts Stars Academy focuses on Judo, Karate, and Jiu-Jitsu, with defensive weapons training as part of the curriculum. Head coach Shamsher Alam, a national referee, is affiliated with both the Bangladesh Judo and Karate Federations. Trainings are conducted in two batches: one starting at 6 AM and the other at 4:30 PM. Address: Bari-13, Road-14, Block-D, Section-6, Mirpur. Practice Venue: Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium, Mirpur. Visit their Facebook page for further information on course fees. Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/p/Martial-Arts-Stars-Academy-100062993752856/ Jacky Martial Art Academy The institute was initiated in 1990 by Kamal Uddin Jacky. A gold medalist from Korea and extensively trained in Japan, Jacky is now a 7th Dan Black Belt Athlete. Jacky Martial Art Academy is renowned for its black belt course lasting two years. The curriculum includes karate, kung fu, judo, taekwondo, chain stick, and long stick training. The monthly fee for the course is BDT 1,000. Additionally, a separate batch for girls is available on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 12 Noon. Address: Chandan Kotha Center, Shahid Faruk Road, Nabi Nagar, West Jatrabari, Dhaka Contact Link: https://www.facebook.com/JackyMartialArtAkademy Read more: Best Free Personal Safety Android, iOS Apps for Women Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do Founded in 1999, Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do is a prestigious karate school in the country. The head coach is sensei Abdul Shukkur Ali Shikder. The school has a branch in Gulistan and multiple locations across Rampura and Banasree. Training at the National Sports Council Building in Gulistan is held from 7 AM to 9 AM. On the contrary, classes at the Rampura and Banasree branches are typically conducted from afternoon to evening. More details on the curriculum, admission, and course fees are available on their official Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/bangladeshwadokaikaratedo Contact Address: 377/1, East Rampura, D.I.T Road, Rampura. Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh The Korean defensive combat style Chang Moo Kwan Taekwondo is widely appreciated all over the world. Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh serves as the official representative of this discipline in the country. The institute conducts training programs five days a week, from 4 PM to 7 PM (except Friday and Saturday). Comprehensive details on admission and courses are accessible through their official Facebook page. Page link: https://www.facebook.com/royaltkdbangladesh Address: House No. 77/B, 7A Dhanmondi. Read more: 7 Types of Strength Training And Their Benefits Shotokan Karate Bangladesh Originating in Japan, Shotokan is one of the world-famous styles of self-defense. It is also widely practiced in karate clubs in Bangladesh. Approved by the National Karate Federation, Shotokan Karate Bangladesh proudly carries the spirit of Shotokan. The center offers courses on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays. Morning classes are from 8 AM to 9:30 AM, and afternoon classes are held from 4 PM to 5:30 PM. Course fees and other relevant details can be found on their Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/shotokankaratebangladeshAddress: 8/C, West Chowdhury Para, Dhaka. Summing Up These self-defense training institutes in Dhaka, dedicated to empowering women, present a unique approach tailored to their distinct martial arts styles. KO Fight Studio, Sobhan Karate Academy, Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do, and Shotokan Karate Bangladesh emphasize traditional karate training. Chinese Kung Fu & Wushu School preserves the essence of Wushu, while Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh is dedicated to Taekwondo. Horde MMA & Martial Arts Academy blends karate with kickboxing, whereas Martial Arts Stars Academy integrates judo and karate. Jacky Martial Art Academy provides a well-rounded approach, incorporating multiple disciplines. Martial Art BD combines personal protection techniques with bodybuilding programs. Beyond physical strength, these institutes foster mental resilience, making self-security a holistic practice for women. Read more: Homemade Pepper Spray for Self-Defense: Ingredients, process, efficiency, precautions

Twelve Vietnamese soldiers tragically lost their lives in an accidental explosion during a military training exercise in Dong Nai province, southern Vietnam, on Monday night. According to state media, the incident occurred at a shooting range of the 7th Military Region. The soldiers were reportedly transporting explosives when a lightning strike during a severe storm triggered an electronic detonator, leading to the fatal explosion. Read: Fireworks explosion at Indian temple injures over 150 people A local military newspaper reported that most of the bodies have been recovered, but authorities are continuing the search for any missing personnel. An urgent investigation into the incident has been initiated by the Ministry of Defence, as confirmed by the Vietnam News Agency. The tragedy unfolded just a day after Defence Minister Phan Van Giang had delivered a speech inaugurating the combat exercise, according to the state-run Nhan Dan newspaper. Source: With inputs from agencies

The United States Secret Service will train the officials of six Bangladeshi agencies to enhance their ability to tackle money laundering and terror financing. Around 60 officials of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), four units of Bangladesh Police including the Criminal Investigation Department, the National Board of Revenue (NBR), the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the Department of Narcotics Control, and Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) will get the trainings in two phases. Among them, 20 officials of BFIU will take part in the training. A delegation of the American Secret Service will come to Bangladesh soon to conduct the training. In the first phase, a five-day training programme will begin at the Police Staff College in the capital from November 10, followed by another five-day training session from November 17. Another two sets of follow-up training for the second phase will begin respectively on February 2 and February 9 next year. After the political changeover, all agencies responsible for tackling money laundering have become active.

Training on 'Quality control, quality assurance system and lab test procedures for salt iodization' for the officials of Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) is going at Cox`s Bazar. The training started on Friday (February 16, 2024) will end on Tuesday in two phrases. Read more: Industries Minister invites SMEs to invest in BSCIC facilities This training was jointly organized by Salt cell, BSCIC and Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) of Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR). Chairman of Sanjay Kumar Bhowmik inaugurated the training. Habibur Rahman Bhuiyan director of IFST, BCSIR presided over this training while Akil Ranjan Tarofder, GM of Extension division in BSCIC, Sarawor Hossain AGM of Extension division and Head of Salt Cell, BSCIC and , officials of IFST, BCSIR and Nutrition International were present. Read more: 12 types of salt used in cooking, baking and seasoning

The American Council of Exercise outlines seven diverse forms of strength training, each catering to distinct functional applications. While each type enhances physical fitness, athletic abilities, or overall well-being, their stark differences explain why a track runner and a bodybuilder, both labeled "strong" and "fit," frequently exhibit contrasting appearances and training routines. What is Strength Training? Strength training, also called weight or resistance training, involves doing exercises to get stronger and last longer. It's not just about lifting weights; you can use your body weight or try different exercises like isometrics and plyometrics. The goal is to make your muscles stronger over time.  Strength training is mainly a type of exercise that doesn't require a lot of air, but some forms like circuit training also get your heart pumping. It helps make your muscles, tendons, and bones stronger, boosts metabolism, and reduces the chance of getting hurt. Athletes and older people can benefit from it to improve their joints, hearts, and lower their injury risk. Many sports and activities include strength training in their practice to make people better at what they do. Read more: How Does Physical Activity and Exercise Affect Testosterone Levels? Benefits and Risks of Different Types of Strength Training  Agile Strength Training Agile Strength Training is a fitness approach that blends traditional strength exercises with practical movements for daily activities. It emphasizes adaptability and flexibility, incorporating dynamic workouts like weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and flexibility drills. The primary goal is to enhance overall strength, flexibility, and agility, adapting to individual needs and progress. Benefits of Agile Strength Training This approach improves overall strength, flexibility, and the ability to move with precision in different directions. It's valuable for daily tasks, promoting quick and controlled responses to your surroundings, ultimately aiding injury prevention. Read more: Why You Should Try Walking Backwards

Bangladesh's Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Imran Ahmad on Sunday (June 11, 2023) said currently there is no market for unskilled labourers abroad but demand for skilled manpower has increased. He said this while addressing as the chief guest at the inaugural programme of newly built Technical Training Centre (TTC) in Raninagar upazila of Naogaon on Sunday. The minister said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken an initiative to set up TTCs across the country to create employment opportunities and earn foreign currencies through developing skills of people. Also Read: Italy to take skilled workers from Bangladesh, contain illegal migration He said the government has also taken measures to send skilled farmers abroad but the farmers must have certificates on their skills. As per the directive of the prime minister, such training centres are being set up and the government has a plan to establish training centres in each upazila in phases for people’s skill development, he said. The minister said the training centres will have to be taken to a stage so that trained workers can be sent abroad immediately after they get training. Also Read: Malaysia and Bangladesh discuss expansion of labour market and worker safety A total of 880 people will be able to take six-month long training on 6 trades at the Raninagar’s TTC built at the cost of Tk 34.71 crore. Chaired by Bureau of Manpower Employment and Training General Director Md Shahidul Alam, local lawmaker Md Anowar Hossain Helal, Project Director Saiful Haque Chowdhury and additional deputy commissioner Md Zakir Hossain, among others were present. Also Read: 14 dead as truck collides with pickup van carrying construction workers in Sylhet

The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) Thursday picked 27 players for the national training camp for the Tri-Nation Cup Football Tournament 2023, to be held during March 20-28 in Sylhet. Brunei Darussalam, Seychelles and the hosts will compete in the nine-day tournament during the FIFA window. Bangladesh national team head coach Javier Fernández Cabrera of Spain announced the national team at a press conference at the BFF House in Motijheel in the afternoon. Twelve players from Bashundhara Kings, six from former champions Dhaka Abahani, three from Sheikh Russel, two each from Fortis and Muktijoddha Sangsad, and one each from Dhaka Mohammedan and Bangladesh Police earned a call-up to the camp. Read more: England aim to seal series against Bangladesh in second ODI Selected players Goalkeepers Anisur Rahman Zico, Shahidul Alam Sohel, Mitul Marma and Mehedi Hasan Srabon Defenders Tariq Raihan Kazi, Saaduddin, Rimon Hossain, Bishwanath Ghosh. Tutul Hossain Badsha, Topu Barman, Alamgir Mollah, Rahmat Mia Midfielders Masuk Miah Zoni, Sohel Rana, Jamal Bhuyan, Hemonto Vincent Biswas Mujibur Rahman Jony and Robiul Jasan Forwards  Rakib Hossain, Sumon Reza, Matin Mia, Foysal Ahmed Fahim, Eleta Kingsley, Mohammad Ibrahim, Aminur Rahman Sojib and Emon Shahiar

Ukrainian officials said Thursday that Russia launched a wave of missile and self-exploding drone attacks on the country. Air raid sirens wailed nationwide. There were no immediate reports of the targets, but Kyiv’s mayor said a Russian missile strike killed one person, the first death from an attack in the capital since New Year’s Eve. Mayor Vitali Klitschko said two other people were injured in the strike.. The head of the Kyiv city administration said 15 cruise missiles were shot down. Serhii Popko said the missiles were fired “in the direction of Kyiv” but did not clarify if the capital itself was a target. Odesa regional governor Maksym Marchenko reported that several facilities of energy infrastructure were damaged not just in the Odesa region, but other regions of Ukraine. That caused “significant problems with electricity supply.” The attacks came after Germany and the United States announced Wednesday that they will send advanced battle tanks to Ukraine, offering what one expert called an “armored punching force” to help Kyiv break combat stalemates as the Russian invasion enters its 12th month. Read more: US military's expanded combat training for Ukrainian forces begins in Germany  Germany said it would supply Ukraine with dozens of Leopard 2 tanks from European countries, while the U.S. said it share Abrams M1 tanks. Training for Ukrainian troops will begin in the coming days. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said Ukrainian crews will start their training on German-made Marders, which are infantry fighting vehicles, and training on the heavier Leopard 2 tanks would start “a little later.” “In any case, the aim with the Leopards is to have the first company in Ukraine by the end of March, beginning of April,” Pistorius added. “I can’t say the precise day.”

Twelve senior government officials from the Ministry of Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment, Bureau of Manpower Employment and Training (BMET) and Technical Training Centers (TTC) will go to South Korea to attend a seven-day training next month. The training course titled “Leadership Programme for Policymakers and Managers of BEST (Better Employment with Skills Training)” will be conducted in two batches. Training for the first batch will be held from October 2 to October 8 while the second batch’s training is scheduled for October 9 to October 15. Speaking at the pre-departure orientation session held at KOICA Bangladesh office on Thursday. County Director of KOICA Young-Ah Doh said Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is one of the priority areas of KOICA. Read: KOICA to improve Bangladesh fire service officials' capacity through training in S Korea “KOICA is continuously supporting the development of the skilled human resources of Bangladesh so that Bangladesh can meet the demand of skilled human resources to be a high-income country by 2041,” Doh said. Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is supporting this training programme under its BEST project. The BEST project is being implemented in collaboration with MoEWOE and BMET with a budget of $8.5million for the period of 2018 to 2023. The project’s main objectives are to support improving the quality of Bangladesh’s TVET, develop capacity of the training providers for quality training delivery, enhance opportunity of employment by developing mid-level technical human resources aligned with Bangladesh’s job market and strengthen institutional capacities of three TTCs namely, Bangla-German TTC, Sylhet TTC and Khulna TTC. On behalf of KOICA, KPC (Korea Productivity Center) will organize the training including field visits to important sites and offices in Korea for better understanding of Korea’s TVET policy and strategy.

South Korea, through Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), will start a programme Saturday to increase the capacities of Bangladesh fire service officials to ensure stable operation and efficient management. Five officials from Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence will participate in the 14-day training in the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. The training in South Korea will help them understand the support system of the Emergency Response Control Center, and acquire the procedures and techniques for the operation of a comprehensive disaster prevention system. It will also help them enable a stable system operation and efficient management of fire service and civil defence and strengthen future cooperation in the area. Korea Information Systems Consulting and Audit will organise field visits to important sites and offices for a better understanding of Korea's National Emergency Management Agency. Finally, the Bangladesh officials will develop a country action plan to develop feasible measures to apply the knowledge, technology and experience learned to their workplace. Read: Fire Service control room landphones go out of order