Freelancing and AI Training Programmes Launched in 64 Districts

The eighth batch of freelancing training and the second batch of artificial intelligence (AI) training programmes have been launched simultaneously across all 64 districts of Bangladesh.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque formally inaugurated the nationwide training programmes at an event held at the Bhola District Shilpakala Academy on Thursday (October 1).

The event was attended by Youth and Sports Ministry Secretary Md Mahbub-ul-Alam, Joint Secretary Dr Sheikh Mohammad Zobayed Hossain, E-Learning and Earning Limited Managing Director Masud Alam, officials of the Department of Youth Development, project directors and representatives of the training providers.

A total of 6,400 trainees from all 64 districts, along with deputy directors of the district youth development offices, deputy commissioners and other project officials, joined the event virtually through Zoom.

Bhola Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Dr Shamim Rahman chaired the programme.

Under the project titled “Employment Creation through Freelancing Training for Educated Job-Seeking Youth in 64 Districts,” 4,800 trainees are participating in the eighth batch of the freelancing training programme.

Another 1,600 trainees are taking part in the second batch of the AI training programme under the project titled “Skills Development of IT-Knowledgeable Youth through Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology.”

Addressing the event as the chief guest, State Minister Md Aminul Haque said young people need to develop their skills to take advantage of technology-driven employment opportunities.

He urged the trainees to apply the knowledge gained through the training to create employment opportunities for themselves while contributing to the country’s economy.

Youth and Sports Ministry Secretary Md Mahbub-ul-Alam said the training programmes aim to equip young people with skills relevant to the job market. He said the quality of training as well as post-training employment outcomes would also be monitored.

Masud Alam, managing director of E-Learning and Earning Limited, stressed the importance of regular practice alongside formal training. He also emphasised the need for proper guidance and mentoring to help trainees secure work after completing the programmes.

At the event, 18 successful freelancers from six districts of Barishal Division were honoured with crests. Six trainees from the first batch of the AI training programme were also honoured.

Laptops were awarded to the highest-earning freelancers from five districts: Sharif Mohammad Nasrullah of Barishal, Osman Gani of Barguna, Md Shaon Howlader of Jhalokathi, Md Moinul Islam Moin of Pirojpur and Marufa Amin of Patuakhali.

Heads of the organisations awarded contracts under the AI training project and relevant officials were also honoured at the event.