From Qatar to entrepreneurship: Ahad's journey of skills development and resilience

I am Abdul Ahad, and my journey has been one of resilience and transformation. After passing SSC Vocational in 2016 from Sylhet Technical School and College, I moved to Qatar, hopeful for a better life. During my time there, I developed my skills as an electrician and managed to send about BDT 20,000 (US$200) home every month after covering my expenses. However, due to visa-related issues, I had to return to Bangladesh in 2019, nearly empty-handed after four years abroad.

Back home, finding work was difficult, and I felt lost. It was during this challenging time that I discovered the Sylhet Technical School and College is providing a job focused training under ILO’s Skills 21 Project. I began working in various shops while attending training sessions in the afternoons. The training boosted my skills and confidence, enabling me to open my own electrical and refrigeration workshop and even create employment for others.

When I completed the training, I had saved around BDT 50,000 (US$500), which I used to open a small workshop. I hired two skilled workers, and together we started our business. Although the COVID-19 pandemic reduced our income, I still manage to earn BDT 8,000-9,000 (US$80-90) a month after covering all expenses, with BDT 5,000 (US$50) going towards household costs.

My experiences motivated me to arrange skills training for my younger brother in driving and plumbing after he completed his SSC exams. With certified training, he secured a Schengen Visa and is now working as an Uber driver in France. He sends BDT 15,000-20,000 (US$150-200) home each month, helping us pay off some debts.

From my journey, I've learned the importance of skill development. It has opened doors for both my brother and me, proving that certified training can truly change lives. I encourage everyone to become skilled and take control of their future.