Staff Correspondent

The Local Education and Economic Development Organization (LEEDO) on Friday inaugurated a dedicated Vocational Training Centre in Kaliganj, Dhaka, aiming to create sustainable employment opportunities for physically assaulted, vulnerable, and street-connected children and youth.

Launched under the theme "Building Skills for a Brighter Future," the center is designed to equip marginalized young people with marketable practical skills that foster income generation, self-reliance, personal confidence, and long-term socio-economic empowerment. The grand inauguration ceremony was attended by local elites, government representatives, NGO officials, and community leaders. LEEDO Program Coordinator Farhana Akter was also present to mark the occasion alongside other distinguished guests.

The facility focuses on hands-on technical, creative, and entrepreneurial training to prepare vulnerable youth for independent living and the competitive job market. Under the beautification and personal care module, participants will receive practical training in hairdressing, skincare, makeup, grooming, hygiene practices, and customer service, enabling graduates to secure jobs in beauty parlors or start home-based services.

Similarly, the tailoring and fashion design component offers comprehensive lessons in sewing, stitching, embroidery, pattern-making, garment finishing, and quality control to prepare students for local tailoring shops, garment factories, or independent entrepreneurship.

The center will also provide focused instruction on handicrafts, jewelry making, decorative arts, and creative craftsmanship, allowing young people to showcase and sell their products in local markets, exhibitions, and specialized workshops. Furthermore, the basic carpentry, woodwork, and maintenance training will emphasize technical precision, workshop safety, and small-scale construction-related employment.

Speaking at the launch, LEEDO representatives emphasized that vocational education is essential to helping vulnerable children move beyond daily survival and transition into dignified, productive lives.