News Desk

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for a nationwide initiative to boost overseas employment opportunities for Bangladeshi youths by establishing language training centres across the country. Announced during a high-level meeting of the committee tasked with expanding overseas employment and safeguarding expatriates’ welfare, the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to developing skilled manpower for the global job market.

The meeting, held at the Cabinet Division office in the Bangladesh Secretariat, was presided over by the Prime Minister himself. Atikur Rahman Ruman, the Prime Minister’s additional press secretary, briefed reporters afterward, emphasizing that the language training centres will equip unemployed youths with essential foreign language skills, enhancing their competitiveness in international labor markets.

“The Prime Minister has directed the relevant ministries to take swift action to prepare unemployed youths for overseas jobs. He specifically instructed the establishment of language training centres with participation from both local and foreign instructors to ensure effective learning outcomes,” Ruman said.

The proposed centres are expected to offer instruction in multiple foreign languages, including English, Arabic, Spanish, and other languages in high demand among international employers. Officials noted that language proficiency is a critical factor in securing overseas employment and can significantly improve both the earning potential and work experience of Bangladeshi migrant workers.

Expanding overseas employment opportunities

The meeting also discussed broader strategies to rapidly expand employment opportunities abroad. Key topics included facilitating low-interest bank loans and simplifying loan procedures for prospective migrant workers. Currently, many aspiring overseas workers are forced to sell personal property to finance employment abroad, a practice the government aims to eliminate.

Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury, State Minister Md Nurul Hoque, Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin, Principal Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar, and senior officials from the concerned ministries attended the meeting. They deliberated on policy frameworks, financial incentives, and training programs to ensure Bangladesh’s workforce is competitive and protected in the international labor market.

Officials said the language training centres will also include modules on cultural sensitivity and workplace etiquette, preparing workers for life abroad. These initiatives are expected to enhance the employability of young Bangladeshis and boost remittances, which play a vital role in the national economy.

Free WiFi at international airports

In addition to workforce development, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed the Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry to introduce free WiFi services at the country’s three international airports: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong, and MAG Osmani International Airport in Sylhet.

“The Prime Minister has emphasized the importance of modernizing airport facilities to enhance the experience of both domestic and international travelers,” Ruman said. The initiative aims to bring airport services in line with international standards and strengthen Bangladesh’s position as a competitive hub for global travel and trade.

Temple renovation in Dhaka-17 constituency

The Prime Minister has also taken steps to fulfill one of his election commitments in Dhaka-17. During his campaign, Tarique Rahman promised to renovate a temple belonging to the Sanatan Hindu community near Mohakhali Cancer Hospital.

Ruman confirmed that renovation work is scheduled to begin next Saturday, with an inauguration ceremony at 11:00 a.m. Officials from the two Dhaka city corporations, Abdus Salam and Shafiqul Islam Khan, along with Professor Farhad Halim Donar, the election coordinator for Dhaka-17, will attend. The renovation project aims to preserve the cultural and religious heritage of the community while demonstrating the government’s commitment to minority rights.

A comprehensive approach to development

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s directives reflect a holistic approach to national development, integrating human resource development, infrastructure modernization, and cultural preservation. By combining language training, airport improvements, and community-focused initiatives, the government seeks to strengthen both the economic and social fabric of Bangladesh.

Officials believe these measures will have long-term benefits for the nation by improving workforce skills, facilitating international labor engagement, and enhancing the quality of public services. The simultaneous focus on expatriate welfare, modern infrastructure, and cultural preservation underscores a balanced approach to progress.

The Prime Minister’s initiatives are expected to be implemented promptly, with close monitoring by the relevant ministries to ensure timely execution. These steps highlight the government’s proactive stance on empowering the youth, improving public services, and promoting inclusive development.