Skills that transformed my life and others

Barisal, Bangladesh (ILO News)- At just 20 years old, I took a bold step toward my future. With support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Bangladesh Technical Education Board (BTEB), I enrolled in a Level 4 caregiving course at Unicare Health & Technical Training Institute Ltd. in Gaurnadi, Barisal. It was a three-month course, including hands-on experience at a government hospital—and it changed everything.

© ILO

© ILO

Once I completed the course with a good result, I submitted my CV to A B Siddik General Hospital and Diagnostic Centre in Barisal. Not only did they offer me a job as a caregiver, but they also saw potential in me to train others. Soon, I found myself stepping into the role as training professional, helping new caregivers begin their own journeys. I have already trained 36 youth on caregiving. 12 of them are now engaged in caregiving profession and 24 are engaged in industrial attachment at various hospitals.

Today, I earn BDT 20,000 (USD 165) a month—up from BDT 12,000 (USD100) when I first started in November 2024. The hospital even provides free accommodation, which is a huge help since my family lives far from Barisal town.

I’m the sole earner for my family of six—my parents, two sisters, and younger brother. My father, once a hardworking carpenter, can no longer work due to illness. My income keeps the household running and ensures my siblings can continue their education.

© ILO

© ILO

One of my sisters has completed her master’s degree and is job-hunting. Another is in her final year of university, and my younger brother just started his HSC. Supporting their dreams is one of my proudest achievements.

Even with work and family responsibilities, I didn’t stop learning. After my HSC, I enrolled in a local college to study Social Welfare, and I plan to pursue a master’s degree. I believe the hands-on experience I’ve gained as a caregiver and trainer makes my education even more meaningful.

I’m also preparing for a Japanese language course, hoping to explore opportunities to work in Japan’s caregiving sector. I've already progressed from skills Level 1 to Level 4—now, I want to build up my soft skills too.

None of this would have been possible without the ILO’s ProGRESS project and Unicare Health & Technical Training Institute Ltd. Their training and encouragement opened doors I didn’t even know existed.

Becoming a trainer hasn’t just transformed my life—it’s given me the chance to shape the futures of others entering this noble profession. On World Youth Skills Day, I stand proud of how far I’ve come—and excited for what’s next.