Chattogram Bureau

A 2024 survey by the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) found that one in four National University graduates is unemployed, with rural areas and women being particularly affected.

Alarmingly, 97% of these graduates reported receiving no career counselling or job-seeking support from their institutions, leaving them ill-prepared for the changing job market.

To address these issues, BRAC’s Skills Development Programme (SDP), through its CareerHub initiative, recently organised the Youth Career Expo in Chattogram.

The event aimed to connect young job seekers with potential employers while providing career guidance, skill development opportunities, and pathways to employment.

Md. Kamruzzaman, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Chattogram, inaugurated the expo as the Guest of Honour.

The event was graced by Sharmin Jahan, Additional Divisional Commissioner (Development) of Chattogram, as the Chief Guest.

Khandakar Jakir Hossain, Deputy Director, Department of Youth Development, Chattogram was present as the Special Guest. Other distinguished guests included Atia Chowdhury, Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs; Urbashi Dewan, Assistant Director of the Department of Social Services; and Zahidul Karim Kochi, Member Secretary of Chattogram Press Club; KAM Morshed, Senior Director of BRAC, and Tasmiah Tabassum Rahman, Associate Director of the BRAC Skills Development Programme.

In his speech, Md. Kamruzzaman stressed the importance of lifelong learning, whether in job preparation or career advancement.

Sharmin Jahan highlighted the expo’s critical role in connecting Bangladesh’s youth with opportunities that align with their aspirations.

Khandakar Jakir Hossain emphasised that BRAC’s CareerHub has become a vital platform, bridging the gap between job seekers and employers in today's competitive job market.

KAM Morshed outlined BRAC’s strategic vision for 2026–2030, which includes creating employment opportunities for 1 million people over the next five years.

Tasmiah Tabassum Rahman underscored CareerHub’s efforts to equip youth for the workforce through job readiness training.

She noted that success in the rapidly evolving job market requires not just education but also adaptable skills, particularly in the context of digital advancements.