Vocational education in Bangladesh has become a lifeline for many youth from poor marginalized communities, allowing them to learn practical skills and gain economic stability. The story of Chanchal from Garaganj in Jhenaidah is a remarkable example of how vocational training changed his life.

Early life and challenges

Chanchal was born into a poor, landless farmer family. His father Manowar Sheikh struggled to survive as a farmer without his land and his mother Kajli Begum was a housewife. In this family of five with three siblings, Chanchal being the eldest child faced financial challenges.

Due to his father’s low income, Chanchal was sent to live with his grandparents, where he completed his SSC (Secondary School Certificate) education. Now 20, Chanchal has always been acutely aware of her family’s struggles and the continuing burden of poverty.

Want a better future

Constant financial difficulties and mental stress motivated Chanchal to find ways to support his family financially. While continuing his studies, he decided to take up technical training that would enable him to earn a sustainable income. Chanchal through his friends heard about a vocational education program supported by AF Mujibur Rahman Foundation and implemented by FAIR, a rights-based & development nonprofit organization. This program targets poor and unemployed youth, giving them valuable technical learning opportunities.

Excited by the opportunity, Chanchal enrolled in an Electrical Work trade course at FAIR under the Program for Marginalized youth. Running from February to July 2020, the course provides six months of comprehensive electrical work training.

Achieving success through vocational training

Chanchal dedicated himself to training, attending regularly, and acquiring the necessary skills to become a skilled electrician. The hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge she gained during the course equipped her to start working in her local area immediately after completing the program.

Currently, Chanchal works as an electrician in his community, earning an average of Tk 400 to 500 daily. His new skills enabled him to contribute significantly to his family’s income, alleviating some of the financial burden they had faced for so long. A steady income has brought stability and a sense of hope to his family, and Chanchal is proud of his ability to support his family.

Effects of Vocational Education

Chanchal’s story illustrates the transformative power of vocational education in Bangladesh. These programs provide critical skills and training to young people from marginalized communities, enabling them to secure stable employment and improve their economic status. Vocational education not only fulfills the immediate needs of the family but also contributes to the long-term development of the community.

Chanchal’s success underscores the importance of such initiatives. By equipping young people with skills in technical education, vocational education programs enable them to achieve economic independence and contribute positively to their families and communities. AF Mujibur Rahman Foundation and FAIR have been instrumental in providing these opportunities, giving hope and a path to a better future for many.

Gratitude and future aspirations

Chanchal is deeply grateful to FAIR for their support and opportunity. He believes that their efforts to promote self-employment among the poor and unemployed youth is like finding a golden deer – rare and priceless. The training he received not only changed his life but also brought joy and relief to his family.

Looking ahead, Chanchal is optimistic about his future. He plans to further improve his skills as an electrician and explore additional opportunities in the electrical field. Her ultimate goal is to start her own business, create job opportunities for others in her community, and continue the cycle of empowerment through vocational education.

Conclusion

Vocational education in Bangladesh is a powerful tool for change in Bangladesh. Chanchal’s story is a testament to the effectiveness of vocational training programs in changing lives. By imparting practical skills and opening doors to new opportunities, vocational education helps break the cycle of poverty and increases self-reliance and confidence.

Through the support of AF Mujibur Rahman Foundation and FAIR, countless youngsters like Chanchal are finding hope and success. Their stories remind us of the potential within each individual and the profound impact that education and training can have on their lives.