BASTOB Celebrates World Youth Skill Day
We’re thrilled to announce that BASTOB- Initiative for People’s Self-Development, in collaboration with the Anukul Foundation, has provided stipends to 22 children under the Save Urban Children from Hazardous Jobs and Assistance for Linking with the Academy (SU-CHALA) project!
This initiative aims to break the cycle of poverty and exploitation by giving vulnerable children a chance at education. The stipends will help alleviate financial burdens on their families and encourage them to pursue their studies.
We are honored to have had Mr. Md Abu Riad, Upazilla Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Keraniganj, Dhaka, as the Chief Guest at the stipend distribution ceremony. His presence signifies the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring a brighter future for our children.
At BASTOB, we believe that education is the key to unlocking a child’s potential. By supporting these 22 children, we’re investing in a more hopeful future for them and their communities.
We are thrilled to share that BASTOB celebrated its 27th founding anniversary on July 4, 2024! The event was a remarkable success and was observed with grace and dignity.
Our heartfelt thanks to all our invited guests, governing body members, founding members, and esteemed representatives from our partners who joined us in this joyous celebration. Your presence and congratulations, accompanied by beautiful flowers, added an extra layer of warmth and joy to the occasion.
As we reflect on our journey, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication from our community. Many more years of expansion and improvement, propelled by the values of individual and collective growth, are ahead of us!
A significant step towards empowering vulnerable coastal communities was taken on May 29, 2024 with the Resilient Homestead and Livelihood Support to the Vulnerable Coastal People of Bangladesh (RHL) Inception Workshop held at the Upazila Parishad Auditorium in Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar. This pioneering initiative, funded by the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and implemented by BASTOB-Initiative for People’s Self-Development, aims to improve the lives and resilience of coastal communities in southwestern Bangladesh. The workshop was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including the Chief Guest, Ms. Meekey Marma, Upazila Nirbahi Officer, Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar. Special guests included Mr. Abu Hayder, Chairman, Matarbari, Md Jashim Uddin, Principal, Moheshkhalli College, Atahar Iqbal, Dholghata Panel Chairman, and MD Alauddin, Marine Fisheries Officer, Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Meekey Marma lauded the RHL project initiative, stating, “The RHL project funded by Palli Karma Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and implemented by BASTOB is clearly a good initiative. The integrated approach might help the Cyclone Remal-affected coastal people of Maheshkhali overcome hurdles.”MD Nasirul Alom, Upazila Agriculture Officer, Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar, emphasized the importance of collective action, remarking, “As Moheshkhali is a cyclone-affected area, the agricultural sector faces many difficulties. People should work together to overcome their challenges.”
The workshop focused on the key objectives of the project, including the construction of climate-change resilient houses in coastal areas, the establishment of crab hatcheries/nurseries and the cultivation of climate-change resilient crabs, goat rearing in the Mancha system, and the cultivation of salt-tolerant vegetables in homestead courtyards. The event facilitated discussions and collaboration among stakeholders, including government officials, development agencies, and representatives from the targeted communities. Participants shared valuable insights and explored strategies for successful project implementation.
Mr. Ruhi Das, Executive Director of BASTOB, chaired the program, while Mr. Ranjit Chandra Das, Assistant Executive Director of BASTOB, facilitated the proceedings. Notably, Chairmans from eight Union Parishads of Moheshkhali, Cox’ bazar also graced the event and committed to extending their support for the successful implementation of the project.
Today, the BASTOB Initiative for People’s Self Development joined hands with Microcredit Regulatory Authority and other NGOs to pay homage to the great leader, Bongobondhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, on his 104th birthday.
The program was held at House 32, Dhanmondi, where people from all walks of life gathered to commemorate the remarkable life and legacy of our nation’s father.
Bongobondhu’s legacy as a visionary leader and champion of the people continues to inspire generations. His unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy, social justice, and freedom laid the foundation for the independent and flourishing nation of Bangladesh.
Through various activities, the event reflected on Bangabandhu’s unparalleled contributions to the nation’s independence and his enduring vision for a prosperous society.
On 29th February 2024, The Goethe-Tagore Academy (GTA) witnessed a vibrant display of athleticism and cultural expression during its Annual Sports Day 2024, held under the supervision of the BASTOB Initiative for People’s Self Development. Thirty-three students actively participated in the day’s festivities, showcasing their talents and fostering a spirit of sportsmanship in a meticulously organized environment. In order to facilitate a competitive competition and encourage sportsmanship, students were strategically divided into three groups: KA, Kha, and GA.
The diverse program offered 21 events, including classic races (100-meter dash), culturally-inspired games (Vitor Bahir, math race), and playful activities (cock fighting [likely non-violent], pillow passing, marble race). Students displayed their enthusiasm throughout the day’s energetic competitions. The atmosphere crackled with enthusiastic cheers and applause as students displayed their athleticism and competitive spirit. Students captivated the audience with a vibrant program of singing, dancing, and poetry recitals, showcasing their talents with pleasant enthusiasm. A concluding prize-giving ceremony marked the end of the cultural program.
The Goethe-Tagore Academy’s 2024 Annual Sports Day proved to be a resounding success, highlighting the crucial role that sports and extracurricular activities play in fostering holistic student development. This well-rounded approach equips students with the necessary skills and confidence to thrive both within and beyond the classroom.
From February 8th to 10th, 2024, BASTOB proudly participated in the Suponno Somahar: Environment-Friendly Microenterprise Fair 2024, organized by PKSF (Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation). This event served as a platform for microenterprises to showcase their environmentally conscious products and initiatives. BASTOB, committed to sustainable development and empowering micro-entrepreneurs, showcased its range of products across different stalls, captivating visitors with innovative machinery and electric products.We believe in the transformative power of microenterprises. Through our programs and support, we empower individuals to create sustainable livelihoods while fostering environmental stewardship. The Suponno Somahar provided an ideal opportunity for us to highlight the incredible work of our micro-entrepreneurs and the impact of their endeavors.
Throughout the event, BASTOB SEP team engaged with visitors, sharing insights into our mission, production processes, and the stories behind each product. We were thrilled to witness the enthusiasm and support from attendees who appreciated our focus on environmental responsibility and social impact. Many visitors expressed interest in collaborating with BASTOB and supporting our micro-entrepreneur’s journey toward sustainable prosperity.
BASTOB remains dedicated to expanding opportunities for micro-entrepreneurs, promoting eco-friendly practices, and contributing to a more sustainable future. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Palli Karma Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) for organizing this impactful platform and to all those who visited our stalls and embraced our vision for a better world. The Suponno Somahar 2024 was a resounding success for BASTOB, reaffirming our commitment to sustainable development and showcasing the potential of microenterprise to drive positive change. We thank everyone who visited our stalls, engaged with our team, and supported our micro-entrepreneurs’ journey toward a more prosperous and environmentally friendly future. Together, let’s continue building a world where entrepreneurship thrives, communities prosper, and the planet flourishes.
Implementing Partner: BASTOB-Initiative for People’s Self Development.
No of Beneficiary: 150 learners (50 in each branch) and 75 Master Craft Person (MCP)
Target Group: 14-18 age school dropout youth group (Male 40% and Female 60%)
Coverage Area: Harbang & Sobuj Bazar (2 branches in Harbang & 1 in Sobuj Bazar)
Goal: Strengthen social cohesion and reduce fragility by mitigating the negative consequences of the Rohingya Crisis on vulnerable communities in Cox’s Bazar.
Trade: TDMF (Tailoring and Dress Making-Female), TTMM (Tailoring and Dress Making-Male), IST (IT Support Technician), MPS (Mobile Phone Servicing), MSM (Motorcycle Service Mechanic), BSF (beauty Saloon-Female)
Activity Summary: Partnership Reinforcement for Integrated Skills Enhancement (PRISE) is an apprenticeship-based project implemented through a partnership with local NGOs. In the guidance of BRAC, BASTOB paired the apprentices and placed them under the guidance of ustads/master craftspeople who already run their own businesses and have been trained on competency-based training techniques. BRAC provided multiple skill development training to BASTOB master craft persons (MCP) on their particular trades, focusing strengthen our 150 school dropout learners. After the training, leaners now go to their respective MCP’s shop 5 days per week and 1 day for soft skill class at BASTOB office. Soft skills training focuses on developing skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Soft skills are personal skills that usually directly complement hard or technical skills. BASTOB Peer Leaders (PL) who conduct the class play a big role in equipping young, impressionable students with the right soft skills.
Success Story: Skills development is an urgent need because of the high number of the underemployed youth groups in Harbang & Sobuj Bazar areas. After the orientation of parents and learners in BASTOB office, they all are now aware of the importance of skill development trainers for their children. Above 70% of the trainees start earning money after receiving the training. Parents come to BASTOB Harbang & Pekua office and submit related papers/documents for enrolling next year’s new participants where the female student rate is higher. The quality of working methods currently being done in various trades is satisfactory.
There are currently two trades ahead. In these two trades, TDMF and BSF, students have started earning by learning to work. Parents and students are showing more interest in learning to work in these two trades. BASTOB believes the number of trainees in these two trades will increase a lot next year. The quality of work of person with disabilities (PWD) students is satisfactory. Supervision and monitoring have been increased for them to complete their work separately in MCP, TT, and Peer Leader classes. It is expected that they will be able to complete the work as per the target by next January.
Challenges:
- To identify 14 to 18 years old school dropout trainees.
- To identify experience MCP with theoretical knowledge of their trades.
- Lack of interest of community people to attend any skill development training.
- To identify school dropouts and disabled students.
- Inadequate materials in MCP workshops.
- No provision for any covid-19 items in the budget during parent meetings, market committee meetings, technical trainers meetings, and Peer leader’s training.
- Insufficient travel and internet bills for Program Organizers (Pos).
SU-CHALA: “SAVE URBAN CHILDREN FROM HAZARDOUS JOBS AND ASSISTANCE FOR LINKING WITH THE ACADEMY”
Su-Chala has completed its 7 years of activities with working children. At present there are 32 boys and girls who are getting stipends. Each student gets Tk. 500/- per month for study contingency and yearly Tk. 800/- for school dress and books. All the children are selected from BASTOB’S project areas and mostly from Keraniganj and Uttara Thana of Dhaka district. Women headed poor families are considered as priority stakeholders of the project. The major objective of Su-Chala project is to ensure basic education for the poor working children.
SUSTAINABLE ENTERPRISE PROJECT MACHINERY & ELECTRIC PROJECT:
PKSF in collaboration with the World Bank designed a microenterprise development project
titled “Sustainable Enterprise Project (SEP)”.
- The goal of this project is to increase the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices
by targeted microenterprises (MEs).
- The proposed project will support microenterprises in agribusiness and manufacturing
Clusters with a focus on areas that are environmentally stressed and/or vulnerable to climate
change and natural disasters.
Machinery & Equipment is an important sub-sector of the overall manufacturing sectors
in Bangladesh and it is fueling the growth of many other industries in the country. Around
34 Light Engineering (LE) clusters are spread over 18 districts across the country. Its
Market size stands at USD 12 billion, projected to grow to USD 25 billion by 2025.
Local production meets only 50% of local demand, creating tremendous scope for
import substitution
- Due to the lack of modern machinery, skilled manpower, and proper access to finance,
the MEs cannot maintain the proper quality of the product at a competitive market price.
Thus a significant amount of machinery and equipment is imported, which exhausts a
million dollars each year.
Overview of the Sub-Project
| Economic Activity (Sub-sector) | Spare parts manufacturing (Machineries and Equipment) |
| Title of the Sub-project | Sustainably developing industrial spare parts and equipment manufacturing workshops by adopting environmentally sustainable practice |
| District | 01 (Dhaka) |
| Upazila/ Thana | 02 (Keraniganj, Jatrabari) |
| Branches | 05 (Kholomora, Rajendrapur, Delpara, SaluliaDonia and Dholaikhal) |
| Number of MEs (covered by PO) | 500 |
| Project Duration | 2 years |
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