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The copywriting profession offers a dynamic and rewarding career where strong writing skills can significantly influence marketing success. With businesses constantly seeking persuasive content, the demand for skilled copywriters continues to grow. Fortunately, numerous free courses on online platforms provide accessible learning opportunities to hone these valuable skills. Let’s explore the best online courses with no cost to kick-start your copywriting journey. Top 10 Free Online Courses for Aspiring Copywriters in 2025 . Copywriting Course: The Power of Storytelling + 33 Stories (Udemy) This Udemy course offers 1 section of 44 lectures packed into 1 hour 43 minutes of practical learning. Learners explore how stories shape emotional connections, amplify engagement, and significantly improve content retention. The lessons teach ways to define a brand’s voice, boost conversion rates, and craft shareable content for digital platforms. The lessons are led by Ing. Tomas Moravek, an Internet Efficiency Award-winning Digital Marketing Expert. Read more: 12 Most In-Demand Tech Skills for 2025: Stay Ahead in the Job Market Though the course does not offer a certificate, its knowledge is valuable for anyone starting in copywriting. Course Link: https://www.udemy.com/course/copywriting-storytelling/ Free Copywriting Tutorial – Effective Copywriting Basics for Entrepreneurs (Udemy) Packed into 9 lectures, this compact Udemy program delivers nearly 1 hour and 42 minutes of targeted learning. The focus lies on writing sales copy, understanding customer behavior, and building messages that drive action. The course is ideal for marketers and entrepreneurs seeking to improve sales writing. Matt Bernstein, the instructor, earned his Communication degree from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Read more: Craft a Job-Winning Resume with AI: Step-by-Step Guide to Stand Out Although no certificate is offered, the training delivers clear and practical copywriting techniques. Direct Access: https://www.udemy.com/course/copywriting-basics/ Copywriting - Extreme Results for Business Owners (Udemy) This Udemy tutorial is split into 9 sections with 40 lectures and lasts 1 hour and 9 minutes. It walks learners through the essentials of copywriting, strategy building, and powerful writing techniques. Topics also include the difference between copywriting and content marketing, plus 12 power words every marketer should know. The course is offered by Dopamind Academy, created by Bruna do Carmo, a businesswoman and teacher since 2011. Read more: Where to Learn the French Language in Dhaka While the course does not include a certificate, it provides actionable methods for refining sales copy and defining ideal clients. Course Link: https://www.udemy.com/course/copywriting-extreme-results-for-business-owners/ The Science Behind Website Copy That Converts (Udemy) Spread across 3 sections and 12 lectures, this 37-minute mini-series breaks down the procedure behind crafting high-impact web copy. Learners explore five essential themes: persuasive principles, brand voice, copy versus content, sales psychology, and SEO-focused writing. Each module reveals how to apply psychology and theory to shape reader behavior without sounding overly salesy. Elena Connolly, a seasoned Conversion Copywriter and Brand Strategist with over a decade of industry expertise, leads this compact program. Read more: How to Answer “Why Did You Choose this Job?” Effectively While the free version skips certification, the exercises encourage portfolio-building for beginners aiming to secure practical writing opportunities. Access Here: https://www.udemy.com/course/the-science-behind-website-copy-that-converts/ AI-Enhanced Copywriting: SurferSEO, Upword, and Anyword (Coursera) Over a focused 2-hour session, this single-module program, featuring 9 videos and 1 hands-on assignment, teaches how to pair human creativity with AI-driven platforms like SurferSEO, Upword, and Anyword. Students learn to automate content insights, fine-tune copy for search engines, and adjust tone for target audiences based on machine-generated feedback. The material is taught by Vinita Silaparasetty, a Google Developer Expert in Machine Learning, alongside the Starweaver Instructor Team. Read more: How to Customize Your Resume for Each Job Application Although certification requires a paid plan, the provided assignment helps learners practice writing AI-informed marketing content. Course Link:https://www.coursera.org/learn/ai-enhanced-copywriting-surferseo-upword-and-anyword Copywriting Basics for Successful Sales (Skillshare) Spanning 13 lessons in 1 hour and 21 minutes, this beginner-friendly program introduces proven techniques for writing headlines, creating reader-focused messages, and using timeless frameworks to boost conversions. Real-world examples help bridge theory and practice, offering clear takeaways for writing copy that sells. Led by Jack Zerby, an entrepreneur and Head of Design at Gumroad, the lessons reflect his hands-on knowledge of design thinking and brand storytelling. Read more: Does Everyone Need to Learn Programming? The Truth About Coding in The Age of AI While Skillshare’s free trial grants access to the full content, earning a certificate requires a paid membership.   Visit Course Page: https://www.skillshare.com/en/classes/copywriting-basics-for-successful-sales-time-tested-tactics-that-prompt-action/508541130 SEO Copywriting for Digital Marketing Success (Skillshare) Through 17 well-structured lessons spanning 1 hour and 43 minutes, this training covers the core of SEO copywriting. It extends from keyword research and headline crafting to writing microcopy for web pages. Students also learn how to write persuasive calls to action, build structured drafts, and maintain the freshness of their digital content over time. Read more: Free Websites for Online IELTS Mock Tests Guidance comes from Ruth Clowes, a seasoned copywriter and trainer with over 20 years of marketing and communication expertise. The class includes a hands-on project- crafting a blog post for a fictional sustainable brand called Green Cat. As Skillshare’s certification is available only via a paid subscription, it doesn’t provide any certificate like other free programs. Course Link: https://www.skillshare.com/en/classes/seo-copywriting-for-digital-marketing-success/1479232761 Master Storytelling and Copywriting with ChatGPT - Transform Your Writing with AI (Skillshare) Spread across 15 practical lessons totaling 1 hour and 39 minutes, this program helps writers learn how to steer ChatGPT into producing stories. The aim is to generate content that resonates emotionally, rather than just filling space. Learners develop techniques for mastering tone, conversational writing, empathy-driven messaging, humor, and even personalized brand style. Read more: Why Backbenchers are Often More Successful in the Professional World Kasia Pilch, a seasoned Online Strategist and Marketing Specialist, designed the material for beginners and pros alike. The course also features four client-focused class projects, encouraging learners to apply creative storytelling techniques hands-on. While a certificate isn’t included, the hands-on assignments serve as valuable assets for building a strong copywriting portfolio. Start Learning: https://www.skillshare.com/en/classes/master-storytelling-and-copywriting-with-chatgpt-transform-your-writing-with-ai/1164232122 Copywriting for Beginners and Pros With Exercises (Class Central) Through 14 YouTube-hosted videos lasting 1 hour and 30 minutes, this beginner-friendly course balances advanced copy techniques with hands-on writing drills. Lessons include crafting short, punchy sentences, using a customer-first mindset, and building effortless yet persuasive copy. Read more: Workplace Burnouts: Causes, Symptoms, Signs, and Remedies Cecilia Elise Wallin, a veteran journalist, novelist, and marketer with three decades of writing experience, leads the sessions. Unlike many platforms, this course offers a free certificate upon completion. Moreover, videos are also available on YouTube. Course Access Link: https://www.classcentral.com/classroom/youtube-copywriting-for-beginners-and-pros-free-course-with-exercises-61648 Become A Copywriter Pro from Ground Up (Eduonix) Spanning 5 sections and 16 lectures across 3 hours and 12 minutes, this masterclass guides learners from basic copywriting principles to advanced storytelling and headline crafting. Along the way, it highlights the subtle techniques that shape messages capable of influencing readers and driving conversions. Read more: How to Make a Video Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide The course is developed by Eduonix, a collective of seasoned industry professionals who have specialized in technology and creative training for over a decade. Though the free program does not offer a certificate, the assignments included provide excellent material for any budding copywriter’s portfolio. Jump to Course: https://www.eduonix.com/courses/Marketing/Become-A-Copywriter-Pro-from-Ground-Up Summing Up These 10 best online copywriting courses present an inviting mix of short, sharp lessons and in-depth learning paths for aspiring wordsmiths. Among them, Eduonix’s “Become A Copywriter Pro from Ground Up” stands out with the longest duration. Apart from this, “Copywriting Basics for Successful Sales” and others hold a moderate runtime between one and a half and 2 hours. On the quicker side, “The Science Behind Website Copy That Converts” wraps things up in the shortest duration. Read more: How to Utilise the Power of Visualisation to Achieve Goals However, each offers valuable insights into persuasive writing, providing the foundation necessary to kick off a successful copywriting career.

As the boundaries between physical and virtual worlds dissolve, the Metaverse is poised to redefine interaction, innovation, and digital enterprise. This immersive ecosystem demands more than imagination—it requires a sharp command of next-generation technical capabilities. Let’s explore the most demanding tech skill set to drive success in the metaverse by 2030. 10 In-demand Tech Skills to Succeed in the Metaverse Economy . Advanced Programming Core programming languages like C++ and C# form the foundation of Metaverse development. C++ offers low-level memory control ideal for performance-intensive virtual environments, while C# is essential for scripting within Unity-based projects. Read more: 7 Warning Signs Social Media Is Affecting Your Child’s Mental Health These languages power avatars, object behaviours, and backend logic across immersive platforms. Demand for developers fluent in these software continues to grow, especially in  - Game studios- Simulation platforms- Enterprise metaverse projects Platforms such as Codecademy, Coursera, and Microsoft's Learn portal offer structured pathways for mastering these programming languages. VR/AR Software Development Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) development rely heavily on engines like Unity and Unreal. Unity supports rapid prototyping and cross-platform deployment, whereas Unreal excels in high-fidelity rendering. These tools are used to build interactive training simulations, virtual showrooms, social spaces, and metaverse gaming worlds. Read more: Best 10 Smartphones Releasing in April 2025 VR/AR developers are in high demand across industries, from healthcare to education and retail. Learning paths include - Unity Learn- Unreal Online Learning- XR (Extended Reality) boot camps that offer hands-on experience in creating real-time, interactive 3D applications 3D Modeling and Animation Creating realistic avatars, environments, and dynamic objects in the Metanetwork hinges on expert-level 3D modelling and animation. These skills bring digital worlds to life, enhancing immersion and interaction. Artists and technical animators use tools like Blender, Autodesk Maya, and Cinema 4D to produce characters, textures, and visual effects. Read more: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Game Review: What’s New As per Horizon Grand View Research, the global 3D animation market reflects this booming demand. The market already generated USD 25,259.6 million in 2024 (over BDT 30,077 crore) and is projected to hit USD 51,028.6 million (more than BDT 60,760.7 crore) by 2030. The CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) is 12.3%. Career opportunities span gaming, virtual production, fashion tech, and education. Skill acquisition is accessible through platforms like CG Spectrum, Udemy, and Skillshare. Blockchain Engineering and Smart Contract Development Decentralisation in metaplatforms depends on blockchain frameworks, where smart contracts automate transactions, ownership, and governance. Engineers proficient in Solidity (Ethereum), Rust (Solana), and Web3.js are driving the development of digital assets, token economies, and interoperable virtual platforms. Read more: Best Free Blockchain Development Courses in 2024 Applications range from NFT marketplaces to decentralised identity systems and virtual land registries. As enterprises and startups scale blockchain-based metaverse ventures, skilled developers remain in high demand. Learning can begin through free resources like - CryptoZombies- Moralis Academy - MIT's blockchain curriculum Practical GitHub contributions and hackathons further solidify expertise. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Implementation AI and machine learning technologies shape intelligent behaviours across Metaverse systems-—from NPCs (non-player characters) to personalised content delivery. These implementations enhance realism, automate moderation, and enable user-specific interactions. Read more: Home Safety Digital Lockers and Vaults: Popular Models with Price Ranges in Bangladesh Neural networks, NLP (Natural Language Processing), and computer vision are increasingly integrated into Metaverse platforms. The aim is to interpret human gestures, speech, and decision-making patterns. The job market favours ML engineers, AI specialists, and data scientists with domain knowledge in immersive systems. Gaining proficiency involves mastering Python, TensorFlow, and PyTorch, with structured learning paths on platforms like - DeepLearning.AI- Fast.AI- Google’s ML Crash Course Read more: 10 Best Alternatives to Skype in 2025 Real-Time Computer Graphics and Rendering Visual immersion in the Metaverse relies on advanced real-time graphics and rendering techniques. These enable high-quality visuals without compromising performance. This includes mastering shaders, ray tracing, and optimisation algorithms. Applications extend across gaming, virtual architecture, simulation training, and digital twin environments. Research and Markets (The World's Largest Market Research Store) report shows a significant expansion in the global computer graphics market. It rose from USD 221.80 billion in 2023 (more than BDT 264101.5 crore) to USD 238.19 billion in 2024 (over BDT 284462.8 crore). Now it is projected to reach USD 372.42 billion (above BDT 443447.6 crore) by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.68%. Learning pathways include NVIDIA’s Deep Learning Institute, Unity and Unreal Engine tutorials, and university-led graphics courses. Read more: Which phones are getting One UI 7 first and when Network Infrastructure and Cloud Computing Architecture The scalability and responsiveness of the Metaspace depend heavily on robust network infrastructure and distributed cloud systems. Skills in building and managing cloud-native applications and latency-optimised networks are critical for delivering seamless virtual experiences. Technologies like Kubernetes, Docker, AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud play central roles in hosting real-time environments and data-heavy simulations. Professionals with cloud certifications and networking expertise are in high demand across sectors such as - Gaming- Virtual conferencing- Enterprise XR platforms Practical skills can be developed through vendor-specific training programs (like AWS Certified Solutions Architect). Read more: Top 10 Holy Quran Apps on iOS and Android in Ramadan 2025 Cybersecurity for Virtual Environments With rising interoperability and digital asset transactions, the metaverse is a prime target for cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts who understand virtual environments are essential to defend decentralised systems and protect digital identities. Key focus areas include encryption protocols, zero-trust architecture, threat modelling for XR platforms, and blockchain forensics. Learning pathways include certifications such as - CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)- CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association) Security+- Labs from platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and Cybersecurity Virtual Labs. Read more: Top 10 Best Offline Android Games Under 200MB for Low-End Phones Data Analytics and Big Data Engineering Decision-making within the metaplatforms hinges on vast, real-time data-—from user interactions and movement patterns to asset performance and behavioural analytics. Big data engineering enables the structuring, processing, and querying of these large-scale datasets. On the other hand, analytics transforms raw information into strategic insights. Use cases span immersive retail analytics, virtual ad targeting, and optimisation of interactive environments. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, job disruption may impact 22% of global roles by 2030, but 170 million new jobs are expected to emerge. Skills in SQL, Hadoop, Spark, and tools like Tableau or Power BI are highly sought after.  Learning can be accelerated through platforms like DataCamp, edX, and IBM’s data engineering pathways. Read more: Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition Review: A True MacBook Competitor or Just Hype? UX/UI Design Designing for spatial computing demands a unique approach to user experience and interface layout. UX (User Experience) / UI (User Interface) professionals must account for 3D space, movement, gesture control, and device-specific constraints. Applications include virtual marketplaces, training environments, and social hubs. Skilled designers with knowledge of the following software become increasingly valuable: - Figma- Adobe XD- 3D prototyping tools like ShapesXR and Gravity Sketch Learning resources include Coursera’s AR/VR design courses, Meta Spark tutorials, and HCI (Human-Computer Interaction)-focused design programs. Read more: Avro Keyboard: Groundbreaking Journey of a Bangla Typing Software by Mehdi Hasan's Team Bottom Line These 10 in-demand skills define the future-ready toolkit for thriving in the evolving Metaverse landscape. From advanced programming and VR/AR software development to 3D modelling, blockchain engineering, and AI/ML implementation, technical fluency fuels innovation. Real-time graphics, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity safeguard interactive ecosystems, while big data analytics and UX/UI design shape user engagement and decision-making. Mastery of these hard skills ensures adaptability and relevance as virtual experiences grow central to global interaction, commerce, and collaborative creation by 2030. Read more: How to Verify If Your Smartphone is Truly Brand New and Never Used Before

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin has emphasised the urgent need to implement the Trade Facilitation Roadmap to address the challenges associated with Bangladesh's graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status. Speaking at the 8th meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) at the BIAM Foundation Multipurpose Hall in Dhaka on Tuesday, the adviser highlighted the critical role of capacity-building and underscored the necessity of enhancing efficiency and fostering a competitive mindset to navigate the post-LDC transition successfully. The Ministry of Commerce organised the meeting with Sk Bashir Uddin presiding. Lutfey Siddiqi, the Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy for International Affairs, attended the meeting as a distinguished guest. “We are set to graduate from LDC status in November 2026. This transition will introduce new regulations affecting our exports. To mitigate the economic impact, enhancing our capacity is crucial. Competitiveness through skill development is our only viable option,” the Commerce Adviser told the meeting. He said Bangladesh has a timeframe until 2030 to make necessary adjustments. “I believe this is a considerable period. If we graduate in 2026, our working groups must collaborate effectively to establish clear objectives.” Read: Adviser Bashir calls for innovation in textile sector to face post-LDC challenges Lutfey Siddiqi echoed the same sentiments, stressing the need for a structured timeline for implementation. “We must strengthen our capabilities while simultaneously streamlining trade operations. Coordination and cooperation are key to achieving our goals,” he said. Senior officials, including the Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Shipping, the Secretary of the Bridge Division, the Secretary of the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division, the Secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division, and the Acting Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, participated in the meeting. The Chairman of the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission, the Administrator of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the Chairman of the Land Port Authority, the Chairman of the Chattogram Port Authority, and the Vice Chairman of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) were also present. The Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) aims to liberalise trade by reviewing international trade regulations and procedures, thereby accelerating the movement of imports and exports. Under the TFA framework, initiatives have been categorised into three groups: A, B and C. Bangladesh submitted a notification regarding the implementation of 21 Category A initiatives to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) on 20 February 2018. Read more: Need to enhance human resources capacity for LDC graduation: Commerce Adviser The implementation of 18 Category B initiatives has already been completed, with notifications sent to the WTO at different intervals. For Category C, the deadline for implementation is 30 June 2030. Of the 15 initiatives under this category, five have already been implemented and notified to the WTO, while the remaining 10 are in progress.

The technology sector is poised for substantial growth in 2025, with specific skills set to dominate the job market. From cutting-edge advancements in AI to cybersecurity expertise, here’s a look at the tech skills expected to be the most sought-after in 2025 and beyond. 12 Top In-Demand Tech Careers in 2025 Learning the following high-demand tech and IT skills, one can ensure a stable income through full-time jobs and freelancing. Full-Stack Development Following the process of digitalization, diverse sectors like business, healthcare, education, administration, etc require apps and software to carry out their operations.  Proficiency in front-end and back-end software development enables the creation of comprehensive web applications. Not to mention, like the previous and passing years, full-stack developers will be highly sought after in the coming years too. Read more: How to Submit Zero Income Tax Return Online in Bangladesh Cloud Computing Proficiency in cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud can boost your career as businesses continue to migrate to cloud infrastructures. Roles such as cloud engineers and architects will be in high demand in 2025 and afterward. UI/UX Design A software or app might lose its potential if its UI/UX design is not user-friendly. Creating user-centered designs that enhance user experience is critical. By learning User Interface and User Experience design, one can earn money from full-time jobs or freelancing in the outsourcing platforms. Cybersecurity Many small to large financial organizations, banks, and even government organizations are falling prey to hackers. Individual users are also not safe in this digital world. Read more: Best Free Blockchain Development Courses With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, people and organizations require experts to protect their digital assets. It can be anticipated that skills in network security, ethical hacking, and risk assessment will be valuable in the job markets in 2025.  Data Analysis and Big Data The ability to analyze large datasets to extract actionable insights is invaluable. Skills in SQL, Python, and data visualization tools are particularly important. The business, marketing, banking, finance, academic research, and diverse sectors are employing data analysts and data scientists nowadays. This wave will flourish in the new year. Besides computer engineering professionals, statisticians, and mathematicians, many people from other sectors are learning these skills to shift their careers to more potential dimensions. DevOps and Automation Ranging from food shops to large factories, automation is in high demand to increase production in less time. Experience with DevOps practices and automation tools facilitates efficient software development and deployment, making these skills highly desirable. Read more: Best Free Data Science, Machine Learning Courses Online Extended Reality (AR/VR) Besides gaming, e-sports, and entertainment sectors, augmented and virtual reality technologies are expanding into diverse sectors like healthcare and retail. Therefore, expertise in VR technology in creating immersive experiences will become increasingly valuable in the coming days. Internet of Things (IoT) With the proliferation of connected devices, skills in IoT development and sensor technology are in demand to support smart infrastructure and products. In the coming years, IoT-skilled professionals will be required in diverse sectors like smart cities, connected factories, health care, agriculture, autonomous driving, smart homes, smart grids, wearables, etc. Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) The integration of AI and ML across various industries is driving a surge in demand for professionals skilled in these areas. This trend is expected to continue in 2025. Expertise in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning will be applied in diverse research and development sectors. The job markets around the world will require more professionals to develop and implement AI solutions in business, technology, management, finance, and other sectors. Read more: Read Free Online Basic Programming Courses for Beginners Robotics and Automation Engineering In the coming year, the application of robotic technologies will flourish in diverse sectors like healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, transportation, etc. As industries and service-providing sectors are adopting automation, job opportunities in robotics and automation engineering will be created for designing, controlling, and maintaining automated systems. Digital Marketing and SEO With the digital transformation of businesses, news portals, etc. skills in SEO, and digital marketing are vital. Digital marketing experts can lead content development teams, monitor the web readers’ priorities, and develop user engagement plans for social media platforms. The job scope of digital marketing professionals will increase more in 2025.  Low-Code and No-Code Development Gone are the days, when only IT experts could develop or use web applications. Nowadays, diverse digital platforms allow application development with minimal coding skills. This trend has increased the demand for professionals who can leverage these tools to quickly deliver solutions.  Conclusion By investing in these highly demanding tech skills, you can enhance your employability and career prospects in the evolving digital landscape of 2025 and beyond. Read more How to Get a Job in Google from Bangladesh?

The government of Bangladesh is undertaking a more result-based training project to ensure updated skills of the industrial workers so they can sustain in the competitive market, according to an official document. This has been inspired by the success of Skills for Employment Investment Programme (SEIP) project considering the challenges of the 4th Industrial Revolution. According to the document, considering the ongoing and future demands of industry and trade, the government has provided training to about five lakh workers through the SEIP. The document said that the growth of real wage of the workers will be ensured if the productivity of labour can be increased. This will raise their living standards. Also read: RMG factory wage digitisation trends turn back: survey “With this end in view, the government laid special emphasis on skill development,” it said. Apart from this training, the SEIP is playing a vital role for human resource development and the skill development of the workers of the country through a range of initiatives like- capacity building of training institutes; developing the standard of training; developing skilled trainer; providing certificate of international standard. According to available information, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a Multi-tranche Financing Facility (MFF) Agreement with Bangladesh Government in 2014 in order to support long-term and comprehensive skills development efforts in Bangladesh assessing its potential contribution to higher GDP growth.  Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) is also co-financing the programme. Read Banglalink signs MoU with BRACU to facilitate students’ skill development Finance Division is the executing agency of the SEIP project while three Ministries (Ministry of Expatriate Welfare, Education and Industries), Bangladesh Bank, PKSF and 13 Industry Associations are partnering with this Division. Apart from this, BRTC under the Ministry of Ministry Road Transport & Highways is working with this project to develop 1,00,000 trained and licensed drivers to drastically reduce road accidents. Support to Skills Development Coordination and Monitoring Unit (SDCMU) is working as the implementing agency. The Skills Development Coordination and Monitoring Unit (SDCMU) is headed by the Executive Project Director who is assisted by 04 Deputy Executive Project Directors, 10 Assistant Executive Project Directors and a team of Specialists. Read NSDA executive chairman visits Chevron’s Uttoron project in Sylhet, Habiganj A Project Management Unit (PMU) is also working at Finance Division headed by Finance Secretary. Policy issues are dealt by the PMU alongside overall supervision of the project. ADB and SDC have been jointly financing the first tranche of the program and the industry associations are also sharing a percentage of the total cost. SDC, however, is not financing the second and third tranche activities due to their internal policy changes. The total cost of SEIP project for the entire period of all three tranches (2014 to 2024) is estimated at  Tk 3712.33 crore.  Read DCCI inks MoU with ULAB for skill development, research The official document said that in order to make the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA)- which has been set up for ensuring the funding of the training for skill development) fully functional the recruitment process of manpower has begun. NSDA has started the creation of a portal on national skill development and implemented the relevant policies for national skill development The first meeting of the NSDA was held with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the chair at her office (PMO). The document mentioned that the present Government believes in poor-friendly and inclusive economic development. For the purpose of building a poverty-free country through inclusive growth, the most important requirements are growth of employment generation, increasing the productivity of labour and ensuring skill development and enhancing the real wages for the labourers. Read Experts for skilling coastal fishermen to tap potentials of marine fisheries In order to accelerate employment generation, it has taken up sector-wise initiatives. The key aspects of these initiatives are - providing incentives for labour-intensive and export-oriented production-based growth; bringing diversification in agriculture; making CMSME sector vibrant; expanding and strengthening of modern service sector including those out of the sectors; encouraging all the initiatives of information and communication sector; and extending and consolidating overseas employment generation. Apart from this, the issue of employment generation is being considered while providing support for large public investment and other policy support measures for the newly established industry and trade. Side by side, considering the necessity of the subject-based employment generation, the content of the educational programmes has been revised and reorganised and more emphasis is being given to creating certain linkage between education and industry. Following the implementation of effective plan of action by the government, the document said, opportunity for employment is opening up gradually for those who have expertise in science and technology. Read Mongla Port witnesses first RMG export thanks to Padma Bridge For example - direct or indirect employment has been generated for 20 lakh people having expertise in IT. Apart from this, at present around 6.5 lakh people are engaged in the profession of outsourcing as a free-lancer. The government has taken up a plan for raising the number of information and communication technology-based employment up to 30 lakh by 2025. Besides this, for the purpose of ensuring a balanced distribution of employment opportunities all over the country, the government has established 100 special economic zones where one crore people will be employed. On the other hand, employment opportunities are being created in the fisheries and livestock sector by engaging the poor, small and medium farmers in the income-raising activities. Read BGMEA wants faster, smoother security clearance services for RMG Above all, the government is attaching the highest priority to the employment generation in the outlines for rural based development of 87230 villages to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The government is working relentlessly to ensure the well- being of workers and to develop the environment of the work-place. During the period of COVID-19 pandemic, the prompt declaration of incentives packages and policy support measures of the government has contributed a lot to maintaining normalcy in labour condition of the country and ensuring the security of the workers of the industrial organisations. The government is carrying out continuous inspection to the factories for identifying risks and inserting these risks in the National Work-Plan for Bangladesh Labour Sector 2021-2026. Again, for the purpose of new employment generation and creating a central database for employment generation with education and training, steps are being taken to establish the “Directorate of Employment”. Read BGMEA, Deshifarmer to offer fresh food to RMG workers at fair prices The government activities towards abolishing child labour and ensuring the due wages for women workers will be more accelerated in the upcoming days.

Banglalink has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BRAC University (BRACU) to facilitate students’ skill development. Banglalink Chief Human Resources and Administration Officer Monzula Morshed and BRAC University Registrar Dr David Dowland recently signed the MoU on behalf of the organisations, according to a press release. It will enable the students to learn from the top professionals of Banglalink and get the opportunity to become a part of Banglalink’s valued programs. Read: Banglalink introduces monetisation on Toffee Monzula Morshed said, “We strive to empower talented youths with a view to building them as future leaders of the country. BRAC University graduates have always shown outstanding prospects in different sectors. Banglalink is very pleased to play a facilitating role in helping them advance their skillsets further.” BRACU Registrar David said, “Our students should be given the opportunity to equip themselves with digital skills required to succeed in today’s world. We are confident that they will greatly benefit from Banglalink’s skill development programs. We thank Banglalink for making us a preferential partner for this collaboration.” Under this agreement, BRAC University students will get the scope to join Banglalink's youth empowerment programs such as learn from the leaders, learn from the startups, campus to corporate, career Bootcamp, club collaboration, on spot internship and job assessment, strategic assistant program, advanced internship program, campus ambassador program, womentor program, and ennovators program. They will also study Banglalink's cases as part of their university curriculum. Read Banglalink skill development programme: 'Digirevolution' Season 1 ends Ayesha Saeed, Head of Talent Management, Banglalink, Eshanee Sadhukhan, Talent Management Lead Specialist, Banglalink, and Tahsina Rahman, Joint Director, Campus Life, BRAC University were also present at the signing ceremony.

Executive Chairman of National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) Dulal Krishna Saha, and Director General, Non-Governmental Organization Affairs Bureau (NGOAB) K.M.Tariqul Islam, recently visited Uttoron project in Sylhet and Habiganj. The project is funded by Chevron and implemented by Swisscontact Bangladesh.Uttoron Skills for better life is a three-year project providing vocational training to 2000 youth in Dhaka and Sylhet division, said a press release. Also read: Bangladesh hunts talents for WorldSkills Shanghai 2022During the visit, the officials met the trainers and the trainees. Trainees shared their experiences and their aspiration with the officials.The NSDA Executive Chairman and the NGOAB DG appreciated the quality of training and the innovative ideas Uttoron is implementing to build a better workforce for Bangladesh. Also read: BYLC to instill leadership skills in 3,000 youthsThe project has introduced a new trade Packaging and Finishing Operation to meet the demand of the packaging industry first time in Bangladesh. The Prime Minister’s office has already approved the trade.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs M Shahriar Alam has said it is time to allow young generation dream big and address any skill gaps in their career path through training in communication, cooperation and leadership. Support and cooperation from all the stakeholders including private sectors, NGOs, development partners in the forms of knowledge, skills and technology as well as investment are needed in the employment generation and skill development of youth to utilise their full potential, he said. Read:Ambassador Muhith takes over chairmanship of Asia-Pacific Group in Vienna The State Minister made the remarks while addressing a policy dialogue virtually titled “Skill Development of Youth for Better Employment Opportunity” as the chief guest. Syeda Saima Ahmed, Councillor, Ilford Town, London Borough of Redbridge and Tasmiah Rahman, Head of Strategy & Business Development, BRAC took part as the panelists at the event held on Saturday evening. The dialogue was chaired by Tasnuva Ahmed, President, JCI Dhaka Independent and moderated by its Director Mahfuz Mishu. Junior Chamber International, commonly referred to as JCI, is a non-profit international non-governmental organization of young people aged 18 to 40 years who are engaged and committed to creating impact in their communities. The State Minister said the government of Bangladesh has already taken numerous initiatives to ensure maximum utilisation of youth potential through promoting their empowerment, morality, humanity and commitment to uphold the responsibilities and glory of Bangladesh. He said there are certain challenges that they need to address together. "We need to ensure full employment and decent work for all men and women including the youths by 2030," said the State Minister. He said global standard education and skill development are twin key factors to this endeavour. Read:EU delegation launches Climate Adaptation Campaign

Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB).

Planning Minister MA Mannan emphasised on collective efforts to use different tools for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) to address its challenges and harness its opportunities.