Bangladesh forms inter-ministerial gender and skills taskforce to spearhead gender mainstreaming in employment

DHAKA (ILO news) – In a landmark move to advance women’s economic empowerment and promote gender equality, the Ministry of Education has announced the formation of the Inter-ministerial Gender and Skills Taskforce. This national, high-level body will spearhead efforts to ensure gender mainstreaming in the labour market through the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and skills development sectors in Bangladesh.

On 26-27 November 2024, 44 representatives from 18 ministries and government departments convened for the first taskforce workshop. The participants mapped out strategies and priorities for 2025, fostering a collective understanding of the roles of programme and monitoring sub-committees, inter-agency coordination, and reporting mechanisms for gender equity and social inclusion. Through an inclusive, participatory process, members identified immediate priorities and actionable timelines to catalyse meaningful change in the TVET and skills landscape.

This transformative initiative is co-led by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs (MoWCA), the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA), and the Ministry of Commerce, under the strategic leadership of the Ministry of Education. Supported by the ILO’s ProGRESS project and funded by the Global Affairs Canada, the taskforce represents a significant step towards fostering resilient, equitable, and inclusive growth for all communities in Bangladesh.

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© ILO

Mr Tuomo Poutiainen, ILO Country Director reaffirmed ILO’s commitment in supporting the government of Bangladesh stating, “Inclusive skills development is a critical pathway to gender equality and economic resilience. The Inter-ministerial Gender and Skills Taskforce demonstrates Bangladesh’s strong commitment to ensuring no one is left behind.”

“The establishment of this Taskforce is critical for addressing the gender disparities that hinder our development. This workshop marks a vital first step toward fostering coordination among ministries and driving meaningful change.” He added.

Opening the workshop, Dr Md Sirajul Islam, PhD, Additional Secretary (Development), Technical and Madrasah Education Division, Ministry of Education, emphasized the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration, stating, “This initiative is a testament to our collective commitment to fostering gender equality and creating an inclusive skills ecosystem. Let us use this platform to exchange ideas, forge synergies, and develop actionable milestones that will advance our shared vision of equality and prosperity for all.”

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© ILO

Mr Peter Bellen, Chief Technical Advisor of the ILO ProGRESS Project, echoed this sentiment, noting, “At the heart of the ProGRESS Project lies the belief that gender equality is not just a goal but a catalyst for sustainable development. Together, we can build a future where everyone, regardless of gender or ethinicity, has equal access to skills, opportunities, and dignified work.”

Awareness Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence and Harassment
To create safe and inclusive environments in educational institutions and workplaces the Gender and Skills Taskforce will play a vital role. With the guidance from the taskforce the Directorate of Technical Education and ProGRESS project, has developed awareness-raising posters and information boards. These materials, containing key messages and actionable steps, will be distributed nationwide to promote understanding and prevention of gender-based violence and harassment.

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© ILO

ILO Country Director handed over these awareness materials to the Ministry of Education and the representatives of 18 ministries. The ministries pledged to display these materials across educational institutions and conduct awareness sessions, reinforcing a nationwide commitment to creating respectful and inclusive spaces.

© ILO

© ILO

This collaborative initiative underlines the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in achieving gender equity and reflects Bangladesh’s dedication to the Sustainable Development Goals.

For more details on ILO’s ProGRESS project and gender equality initiatives, visit https://www.ilo.org/projects-and-partnerships/projects/promoting-gender-responsive-enterprise-development-and-tvet-systems