Staff Correspondent

Grameenphone, through it’s free Learning Management System, Grameenphone Academy, has launched ‘Freelancing Factory’, an initiative designed to equip students with the necessary training, and mentorship required to build a freelancing career. This program aims to bridge job market gaps, unlock economic potential, and empower the next generation, ushering in a new era for Bangladesh's youth.

During the inauguration event of the ‘Freelancing Factory’ initiative at GPHouse in Dhaka recently, the mentors conducted a workshop to introduce the program's structure to participants. They outlined the various components of the initiative and addressed students' questions, providing valuable insights on how the program will support their success in freelancing. The program includes 64 interactive online classes in two separate batches, focusing on UX/UI design and Web development through WordPress, enabling students to start earning $100 within 3 months and reach $1,000 within eight months through a mentor-led program.

Every year, a significant number of youth enter Bangladesh's job market, creating an overwhelming demand for employment that far exceeds available opportunities. In contrast, the global freelancing platform boasts millions of jobs ready to be filled with freelancers. Recognizing this gap, Grameenphone Academy seeks to equip students with the required skills to thrive in the global freelancing market, paving the way for their financial independence.

Yasir Azman, Chief Executive Officer of Grameenphone, shared his personal aspirations for freelancing. He listened intently to inspiring stories from the participants, including a participant who traveled from Borguna-Amtoli to join the program, and a BSc engineer with hearing challenges, who articulated his hopes for a brighter future. He was moved by their stories, which showcased the resilience and determination of young individuals pursuing new opportunities. Azman’s engagement highlighted the profound impact of initiatives like the ‘Freelancing Factory’, reinforcing the program's mission to empower youth and cultivate a thriving freelancing community in Bangladesh.

Hans Martin Henrichsen, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of Grameenphone, emphasized on the abundant opportunities available to students in freelancing. He expressed pride in the diverse cohort, noting that it includes 40% female participants and 19% students from outside Dhaka. This diversity not only enriches the learning environment but also reflects a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, essential for fostering creativity and innovation in the freelancing landscape.

Sayeda Tahya Hossain, Chief Human Resources Officer of Grameenphone, energized the participants with her encouraging message, urging them to cultivate their skills and seek out opportunities in diverse fields. She highlighted the importance of expanding their perspectives, emphasizing that every new skill can open doors to impactful contributions in both their personal and professional lives.

Approximately 12,000 students engaged with Grameenphone Academy through its Facebook group and LMS. From this outreach, over 600 students applied, and after thorough assessments and interviews conducted by mentors, 106 were ultimately selected.