Skills Supply Demand Analysis Summary Report March 2024
Skills Supply Demand Analysis Summary Report March 2024
Skills Supply Demand Analysis Summary Report March 2024
X Skills
Demand and Supply
Assessment in the Chattogram-
Cox’s Bazar Region
Summary Report
May – December 2023
© International Labour Organization 2024
First published March 2024
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X Skills
Demand and Supply
Assessment in the Chattogram-
Cox’s Bazar Region
Summary Report
May – December 2023
1 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
XContents
X 1. Assessment overview 04
1.1. Methodology 05
X 2. Priority occupations 08
2.1. Enterprises' capability gaps 09
4.2. Skills demand and supply in the tourism and hospitality sector 14
X Contents
X Annexes 26
Annex A. Training programmes offered in the Construction sector in the
Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region. 26
Annex B. Training programmes offered in the Tourism and Hospitality sector in the
Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region. 27
X List of Acronyms
Voc vocational
Summary Report 4
1. Assessment overview
This is a summary of the skills demand and as identif ying 49 hard-to-f ill occupations
supply assessment conducted in the districts that will be prioritized in future development
of B andarban, K hagrachari, Rangamati, interventions.
Chattogram, and Cox's Bazar (referred to in
This assessment hints at the fact that the lack
this study as the “Chattogram–Cox's Bazar
of skilled labour is a key obstacle to generating
region”) between May and December 2023.
sustainable economic growth in Chattogram–
This assessment was commissioned by the ILO
Cox's Bazaar region. The identif ied gaps
under the programme “Leaving No One Behind:
in demand-driven training underscore the
Improving Skills and Economic Opportunities
necessity for a coordinated skills development
for the Women and Youth in Cox’s Bazar,
system that bridges the divide between skill
Bangladesh”. This programme is implemented
supply and demand to promote employment
by the ILO and supported by the Global Affairs
and social justice for all.
Canada with it’s tripartite constituents Ministry
of Youth and Sports, Employers' Federation and This summar y report first presents in this
Workers' Organization. overview section a look at the methodology for
the study followed by the general conclusions of
The assessment focused on five sectors with
the assessment in regard to systemic constraints
high growth and employment creation potential
in the Chattogram–Cox's Bazaar region, before
in the Chattogram–Cox's Bazar region:
providing key overall recommendations for
i. construction; improving skills development in the region. In
section 2, this summary report provides a brief
ii. tourism and hospitality;
overview of the priority occupations identified
iii. transport; by the assessment as well as enterprises’
capability gaps, both across and within the five
iv. manufacturing; and
priority sectors. Sections 3–7 offer a summary of
v. agro-food processing. the sectoral analyses for each of the five target
The consulting firm DM Watch Limited was sectors noted above. Each sectoral analysis
responsible for conducting the study on skills provides a brief over view of the business
needs assessment and anticipation, while environment in the sector, identifies skills
Inspira Advisor y and Consulting Limited demand and supply, and indicates occupation-
undertook the skills supply assessment. The specific skills needs and gaps, before providing
overall assessment consequently identifies sector-specific recommendations related to
both systemic and sector-specific skills needs skills development.
and gaps in the five sectors covered, as well
5 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
X 1.1. Methodology
The ILO Skills for Trade and Economic Diversification (STED) methodology was used for this
assessment. It combines qualitative and quantitative methods to identify the growth prospects and
job creation opportunities at the sector level and to provide guidance on the integration of skills
development into sectoral policies. Primary and secondary data was gathered from key stakeholders
and relevant sources through surveys, key informant interviews (KIIs), focus group discussions
(FGDs) and desk research. The objectives were to assess current and future skill needs and gaps
in the five priority sectors in the region, as well as to identify the gaps in regard to developing and
delivering quality training programmes, accessing skills development, and supporting school-to-
work transitions.
Figure 1. Overview and timeline of the skills demand and supply assessment in
the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region
STED approach
Demand Supply
Review of the existing strategies, policies, research findings,
Secondary Desk documents, datasets, and reports
Review April-June 2023 Stakeholders consulted
Survey sample:
Employers’ Skills Survey of TVET • 432 Companies in 5
Quantitative Method Survey (ESS) Providers priority sectors
July –October 2023 July – October 2023 • 202 TVET institutions
• Government, Regulatory
Authority, Intermediary
Focused Group Key Informant
Triangulation • Current and former trainees,
Discussion Interviews trainers and instructors
To assess local skills demand, an Employers This survey was complemented by 25 KIIs
Skills Survey (ESS) was conducted with 432 with major stakeholders and labour market
employers to understand current and future intermediaries. Finally, 18 FGDs were conducted
skills demand in the five target sectors. The with current trainees/students, graduate
survey was complemented by 13 FGDs with trainers, and instructors.
employers and business owners, as well as 39
KIIs with major government officials, chambers The findings of the assessment were presented
of commerce, Export Processing Zone (EPZ) to the programme's partners during Technical
officials, and non-governmental organization Foresight Workshops at the end of 2023.
(NGO) officials. This enabled the validation of the findings
and the engagement of the partners in
To assess skills supply, 202 technical and the process of strategic analysis, visioning,
vocational education and training (TVET) and the development of conclusions and
providers accredited by the Bangladesh recommendations to promote and address
Technical Education Board (BTEB) were the identified skills needs and gaps in the
surveyed: 36 in Cox’s Bazar district and 166 in Chattogram–Cox's Bazar region.
the Chattogram, Rangamati, Khagrachari, and
Bandarban districts.
Summary Report 6
2. Priority occupations
The priority occupations listed in table 1 were identified based on the surveys, the FGDs and
the STED Foresight Workshops.
Sector
Tourism and
Construction Transport Manufacturing Agri-food
Hospitality
Mechanical/ Repairing
Tile Fitter Tour Guide Driver Baker
Technician
Food Preservation
Plumber Housekeeping Motor Mechanic Welder
Technician
Food Packaging
Carpenter Hotel Manager Diesel Engine Mechanic Packaging Technician
Technician
Refrigeration
Foundation Worker Chef/Cook Mechanical Fitter Junior Mechanic
Technician
Consumer Electronic
Demolition Worker Auto AC Technician Waste Management
Technician
The assessment also identified key capabilities gaps that are preventing business growth in the
Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region (table 2). Most of the gaps are common across all five target sectors,
but the sector specific gaps have been flagged.
Strengths:
The construction enterprises in the region benefit from a comparatively cheap labour force.
Furthermore, the ease of access to essential building supplies like cement and iron in Chattogram
facilitates the procurement of construction materials. The industry is also bolstered by development
projects implemented by the Government of Bangladesh, such as fast-track programmes that
generate growth and investment prospects in the region.
Weaknesses:
The region’s labour force is significantly underqualified, which may impact the effectiveness
and quality of construction projects. The employment of trained workers is hampered by the
poor cooperation between firms and training institutions. Furthermore, there appears to be a
lack of adherence to construction regulations, norms and workplace safety, which may have an
impact on the safety and quality of projects. Finally, there is a lack of public confidence in regional
construction companies, which could harm the industry's standing and dependability.
Opportunities:
After Dhaka, Cox's Bazar is now the second priority location for the Government of Bangladesh's
infrastructure development funds. This creates opportunities for a range of development projects,
such as construction linked to the blue economy, tourism-supported construction, and offshore
wind generation. In addition, several policy plans – such as the Bangladesh Regional Connectivity
Project, the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100, and the Bangladesh Vision 2021 – are expected to create
more labour demand in the construction sector.
Threats:
Construction costs are 20–30 per cent higher in the region, which affects project feasibility and
budgets. Political instability also hinders major development initiatives and result in delays and
uncertainty. The entry of foreign competitors into the local market, especially competitors from
China, is taking market share from local companies. Jobs in the construction sector are often seen
as hazardous and laborious, which deters prospective workers.
For the ESS survey of the construction sector, 14 construction companies were contacted: 3 were
micro enterprises (fewer than 10 employees); 8 were small (10–99 employees); 1 was medium (100–
249 employees); and 2 were large (more than 250 employees).
A lack of necessary skills, work experience, or qualifications among workers were identified as key
obstacles for hiring for many positions. The findings of the ESS reflect a broader trend wherein
technical positions in the construction sector are not being filled due to gaps in technical skills, on-
the-job experience, and formal qualifications. This points to the need for more targeted educational
programmes or apprenticeships that can provide both the theoretical and practical experience
required in the field.
11 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Resource management
Basic skills for green jobs
Foundational skills
Critical thinking skills
Problem solving skills
Communication skills
Job-specific technical skills
Numeracy skills
0 20 40 60 80 100 120
percentage (%)
Note: Multiple responses possible. Source: ILO Establishment Skills Survey, 2023.
The assessment identified large gaps in regard to people and project management, resource
management, and leadership skills, as well as widespread small gaps in numeracy skills. Workers'
lack of job-specific technical skills was also an issue This was further corroborated during FGDs
and KIIs and identified as a key obstacle to improving the quality of construction projects and to
adopting new technologies or advanced construction methods.
The study also looked at the supply of training in the construction sector in the Chattogram–
Cox’s Bazar region and identified a large disparity between districts in terms of access to training
programmes. For instance, “Construction Technology” and “Environmental Technology” diplomas
are not offered in the Cox’s Bazaar region. Moreover, at the vocational Higher Secondary Certificate
(HSC) level, no courses are being offered for the construction sector in Cox’s Bazar. At the vocational
Secondary School Certificate (SSC) level, only “Welding and Fabrication” and “Electrical Maintenance”
are offered. It is important to note that most courses in the Chattogram region are only available
in Chattogram district itself. Under the National Skill Certificate (NSC) programme, more trades
are being covered in Chattogram than in Cox’s Bazar. Available courses are only being offered up
to NSC Level 2 in Cox’s Bazar, and no NSC Level 5 courses are offered in either of the regions. A list
of all construction-related trainings offered in the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region is presented in
Annex A below.
Based on the information gathered from the foresight workshop and primary survey, table 3
presents findings of the skills needs and gaps analysis for priority occupations in the construction
sector. For each occupation, availability frequency was derived from the frequency of a specific
course/training reported by TVET providers and the degree to which the skill training relates to the
occupation.
Summary Report 12
XTable 3. Training gap analysis for priority occupations in the construction sector
X To meet the increased industry demand for semi-skilled and skilled workers, TVET providers should
introduce advanced modules (NSC Levels 3 and 4) for existing basic courses.
X Form partnerships with equipment manufacturers to design and implement specialized training
programmes.
X Foster collaboration between local TVET providers and foreign agencies involved in construction
projects. Leverage this collaboration for advanced technology-based training, knowledge transfer
and employment opportunities.
X Implement training for sustainable practices and integrate green building standards.
13 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Strengths:
The region is home to the world’s longest sea beach, offering unique natural resources. Its rich
archaeological and historical sites, along with the natural beauty and lush greenery, provide a
solid foundation for cultural and eco-tourism. The area is known for its hospitality and rich cultural
heritage. Good connectivity through international air travel and the availability of accommodation,
including reputed international hotel chains, further add to its appeal as a tourist destination.
Weaknesses:
Many tourist sites are underexplored and mismanaged. Insufficient investment in the sector, low-
quality services, and concerns about safety, security and hygiene could dissuade potential visitors.
Inadequate infrastructure, complex visa procedures, limited marketing and promotional activities,
a lack of private sector initiatives, high prices for certain tourism and hospitality components, and
a shortage of professional guides are all areas that require immediate attention to improve the
sector’s appeal and functionality.
Opportunities:
Globalization and improved communication technologies can facilitate the dissemination of
information, making it easier to market and promote the region’s attractions. Investing in research
and development can help attract a diverse tourist demographic. Hosting international events can
increase the region’s visibility on the global stage. Furthermore, the development of favourable
tourism and hospitality policies can provide a conducive environment for growth and investment
in the sector.
Threats:
Issues such as airport harassment, police-related problems, language barriers, and a conservative
social and religious system could negatively impact the tourism and hospitality experience. The
region also faces strong competition from neighboring areas with already developed tourism and
hospitality sectors. A negative image and misconceptions about Bangladesh, lack of awareness
about the benefits of tourism and hospitality, illegal hunting and fishing affecting wildlife, shortages
of accommodation and services, inadequate safety measures, and the absence of a comprehensive
tourism and hospitality policy could all impede the growth of tourism and hospitality in the region.
Summary Report 14
As part of the ESS, 126 tourism and hospitality attract and retain employees. The second-most
sector enterprises were surveyed: 20 per cent common reason cited is increasing competition
were micro (fewer than 10 employees); 38 per from other industries, implying that the tourism
cent were small (10–99 employees); 28 per cent and hospitality sector is also competing with
were medium (100–249 employees); and 14 per other industries for potential employees, which
cent were large enterprises (250 employees or may offer better opportunities or conditions.
more). In addition, applicants lacking the necessary
skills and applicants lacking the necessary
T h e s u r ve y i n d i c a te d t h e n e e d f o r a n
work experience were also identified as key
increasingly specialized and skilled workforce
reasons behind certain vacancies being hard
as well as current difficulties in finding skilled
to fill. This points to a skills gap wherein
workers across the various subsectors covered
applicants do not meet the qualifications
(namely, accommodation and catering, food
needed for the jobs available. The employers
and beverage, and entertainment). Increasing
surveyed were also asked about the various
competition within the industry was identified
skills gaps of the workers they employ and to
as the most prevalent reason for hard-to-fill
grade how important these gaps were. Figure 3
vacancies. This suggests that there is a high level
summarizes these findings.
of competition for talent within the tourism and
hospitality sector itself, making it challenging to
X Figure 3. Workers’ skills gaps in the tourism and hospitality sector (% of respondents, N=126)
Note: Multiple responses possible. Source: ILO Establishment Skills Survey, 2023.
The survey identified sizeable gaps in technical and core skills in the tourism and hospitality
sector. In particular, communication skills have the highest prevalence of “medium gaps”.; while
problem-solving skills have the highest prevalence of “large gaps”. Large gaps where also identified
for foundational skills, leadership skills and basic digital skills. Almost half the employers surveyed
also reported gaps in job-specific skills, which tends to indicate a significant technical skills mismatch
as well.
To complement the ESS, a TVET survey was also conducted. Overall, 29 BTEB-accredited TVET
providers stated that they provide training courses in tourism and hospitality in the Chattogram–
Cox’s Bazaar region. At the diploma level, only one diploma in Tourism and Hospitality is accredited
by the BTEB. Cox’s Bazar Polytechnic was the only institution that offered this diploma programme
in Cox’s Bazar, but the programme has been discontinued due to a lack of students. No SSC and
HSC programmes relevant to the tourism and hospitality sector are available in either Chattogram
or Cox’s Bazar. However, there are few NSC courses available, such as housekeeping, front office
management, and tour guide. Based on interviews with stakeholders, the study also identified a
few commercial training institutions running courses, but none were BTEB-accredited. A list of all
tourism and hospitality-related training programmes offered in the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region
is presented in Annex B below.
Based on the information gathered from the STED foresight workshop and primary survey, table 4
presents findings of the skills needs and gaps analysis for priority occupations in the tourism and
hospitality sector. For each occupation, the availability frequency was derived from the frequency
of a specific course/training reported by TVET providers and the degree to which the skill training
relates to the occupation.
XTable 4. Training gap analysis for priority occupations in the tourism and hospitality sector
X Introduce sector-specific courses tailored to the demands of the tourism and hospitality
industry, such as tour guide, tour operation, housekeeping, and food and beverage services.
X Introduce courses related to reservation processes, covering booking and ticketing. Target front
desk officers and tour operators to enhance their skills in managing reservations effectively
within the tourism and hospitality sector through upskilling training and certifications.
X Extend the curriculum beyond technical skills to include essential core skills. Integrate
components on navigation, effective communication, customer service, and complaint
mechanisms to ensure a holistic skill set among trainees.
X Offer courses that cover online marketing strategies, e-payment systems, and social media
management to equip individuals with skills relevant to the evolving landscape.
X Advocate for TVET providers to collaborate with the Bangladesh Technical Education Board
(BTEB) to implement Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programmes in different occupations,
such as chefs and tour operators. This collaboration aims to certify experienced industry
workers, acknowledging their skills and expertise gained through practical experience.
17 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Strengths:
The strengths of the transport sector are rooted in a skilled workforce that is proficient in practical
aspects, such as vehicle maintenance. Additionally, the workforce is recognized for its communication,
teamwork and problem-solving abilities, indicating a solid foundation of soft skills – a conclusion that
was reinforced by both FGD and KII inputs. Apprenticeship training and a willingness to employ and
train late entrants highlight the sector’s openness to developing its workforce.
Weaknesses:
However, the analysis also identifies significant weaknesses, such as the lack of formal certification for
skilled workers, which could limit their job opportunities, as highlighted by KIIs in Cox’s Bazar. There’s
a noted discrepancy between the education/training provided and the practical needs of the sector,
coupled with an absence of soft skills training for specific roles. Furthermore, despite the technical
skills of the workforce, there are insufficient quality job opportunities, as well as security concerns like
extortion and robbery.
Opportunities:
The region has an opportunity to benefit from ongoing and upcoming infrastructure projects,
such as the SASEC Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar Railway Project, the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar Highway
Improvement Project, and the Matarbari Port Development Project, which are creating demand for
employers and workers in the sector.
Threats:
The lack of adequate and qualified human resources are a key threat to the transport sector. The
sector may face challenges in maintaining and improving the quality, efficiency and safety of transport
operations and infrastructure, as well as in attracting and retaining customers and investors.
For the skills needs assessment a sample of seventy-five enterprises were surveyed: 13 per cent were micro
enterprises (with fewer than ten employees); 35 per cent were small (10–99 employees); 31 per cent were
medium (100–249 employees), and 21 per cent were large (250 or more employees).
Figure 4 presents an analysis of the skills needs and gaps in the current transport workforce within the
Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region.
Summary Report 18
Based on the information gathered from the primary survey and KII validation, table 5 presents
findings of the skills needs and gaps analysis for priority occupations in the transport sector. For each
occupation, the availability frequency was derived from the frequency of a specific course/training
reported by TVET providers and the degree to which the skill training relates to the occupation.
19 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Table 5. Training gap analysis for priority occupations in the transport sector
Strengths:
Manufacturing enterprises in the region benefit from comparatively cheap labour and a strategic
location near the Port of Chattogram and the Port of Matarbari. There is a favourable business
environment due to the presence of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Export Processing Zones
(EPZs). There is an already well-established and competitive textile and garment industry in the
region fuelled by strong domestic and international demand. Other manufacturing sectors, such as
shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, and leather and footwear have also seen significant growth.
Weaknesses:
The region’s manufacturing sector faces several challenges and constraints, such as low productivity
and quality, inadequate infrastructure and utilities, lack of skilled and trained workers, high
dependency on imported raw materials and intermediate goods, low-value addition and innovation,
and poor compliance with labour and environmental standards. The region also suffers from political
instability, social unrest, corruption, and bureaucratic hurdles, which hamper business confidence and
the investment climate.
Opportunities:
The region has several opportunities for enhancing skills development and employment creation in the
manufacturing sector, such as leveraging regional and global market access and integration, especially
to South Asian and South-East Asian countries, and diversifying the export basket and markets. The
assessment also identified significant employment opportunities in the light engineering sector and
the shipbuilding sector in Chattogram.
Threats:
The region faces several threats and risks, such as competition and pressure from other low-cost
producers, especially in the textile and garment industry, the volatility and uncertainty of the global
market, and trade tensions between major economies. The environmental and social impacts of
manufacturing activities – especially on biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities – are
also key issues.
For the skills needs assessment a sample of 217 manufacturing enterprises were surveyed. The
assessment suggests a significant gap between the availability of skilled labour and the industry’s need
for machine operators, especially for certified machine operators, which are very scarce, according to
FGD and KII respondents. The fact that managers, supervisors, and mechanical technicians have been
reported as hard-to-fill vacancies also shows the current demand for leadership and management skills
in the sector.
21 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Resource management
Leadership skill
Numeracy skills
Note: Multiple responses possible. Source: ILO Establishment Skills Survey, 2023.
Findings from the survey suggest that job-specific technical skills are the most in-demand, indicating
a strong current and future need for specialized technical knowledge tailored to specific roles in
manufacturing. Communication skills are also highlighted, emphasizing the importance of clear and
effective interpersonal communication within the industry. Leadership skills, project management, and
problem-solving capabilities are reported as having medium-level gaps among the workforce, which
indicates overall gaps in terms of core skills.
With regard to skills supply, four courses at the diploma level were found to be present in the Chattogram
region, and one diploma-level course in food technology was found in Cox’s Bazar. There are a few
courses available at the HSC vocational level in the Chattogram region; while Cox’s Bazar does not offer
any manufacturing-related courses at the HSC level. However, two relevant courses under SSC vocational
certification are offered in Cox’s Bazar. Most of the manufacturing courses are available at the NSC level
and non-formal certificate level. Notably, Cox’s Bazar has only one course to offer under the NSC and at
least four courses under non-formal certification. A list of all the manufacturing sector-related training
programmes available Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region is presented in Annex D.
Based on the information gathered from the primary survey and KII validation, table 6 presents
findings of the skills needs and gaps analysis for priority occupations in the manufacturing sector.
For each occupation, the availability frequency was derived from the frequency of a specific course/
training reported by TVET providers and the degree to which the skill training relates to the occupation.
Summary Report 22
XTable 6. Training gap analysis for priority occupations in the manufacturing sector
For most of the in-demand occupations in the manufacturing sector, skills training is either not
available or inadequately available.
X Expand training programmes for machine X Provide training for both operational-level
operators, particularly in CNC (computer workers and managers on the proper
numerical control) machine operation, management of hazardous and toxic
lathe machine operation, and grinding materials. This includes guidelines on
machine operation to cater to the significant handling, storage, and disposal; ensuring
employment opportunities in the light compliance with safety regulations; and
engineering sector and shipbuilding sector minimizing environmental impact.
in Chattogram.
23 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Strengths:
Many areas of the Chattogram-Cox's Bazar region have a favourable climate, soil and water re-
sources for the cultivation of various crops. One of the agri-food sector’s notable strengths lies in
the wealth of local expertise, with many workers possessing a deep understanding of traditional
farming and harvesting techniques. Moreover, the sector excels in inclusive employment, actively
involving a diverse workforce that includes men, women, youth and marginalized groups. Addition-
ally, the sector’s openness to self-employment and entrepreneurship – with relatively low capital
requirements – encourages economic empowerment and employment generation, particularly in
rural areas.
Weaknesses:
A significant portion of the workforce lacks formal education, and the limited availability of skills
training in modern agricultural technologies and machinery operation impedes productivity growth.
Communication and marketing skills are often overlooked in training. Inadequate focus on quality
and safety standards is a key challenge. It is unclear if the sector is adequately equipped to consist-
ently meet regulatory requirements and ensure healthy farming practices.
Opportunities:
The growth of the tourism and hospitality industry is also creating a high demand for agri-food
products. Embracing modern agricultural technologies and machinery can enhance productivity,
reduce reliance on manual labour, and lead to more sustainable practices. Market expansion, par-
ticularly into export opportunities, offers the potential for economic growth and reduced depend-
ence on domestic markets. The assessment also found that many young entrepreneurs are showing
interest in investing in the agri-business sector.
Threats:
Increased automation and technology adoption may lead to job displacement, particularly in roles
that can be automated. This poses a risk to the livelihoods of traditional agri-food workers. More-
over, unforeseen events such as the COVID-19 pandemic can create financial challenges for both
entrepreneurs and workers, impacting their ability to invest and sustain operations. Land leasing
practices that prioritize monetary gain over genuine farming can affect the availability of agricultural
Summary Report 24
FGD and KII participants noted that the required skills in the agri-food sector have evolved due to the
modernization of agricultural practices in the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region, especially as a result of
the integration of digital machinery.
There are a limited number of courses available for the agri-food sector, with only two agriculture training
institutes: one in Chattogram and one in Rangamati. Though there is no specialized agricultural training
institution in Cox’s Bazar, a government polytechnic in Cox’s Bazar does offer one agri-food-related
course: Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Technology. No HSC (vocational) or NSC-level courses related
to the agri-food sector are available in Cox’s Bazar. There are, however, some non-formal trainings
available in both the Chattogram region and Cox’s Bazar. A list of all the agri-food sector-related training
programmes available Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar region is presented in Annex E.
FGD insights indicate that the curriculum needs to be more oriented toward meeting industry needs
and thus enabling more market-focused skill supply. To this end, trainers need to be oriented towards
modern methods of teaching and new agri-food specific skills. At present, students face constraints in
accessing jobs in the industry due to a lack of adequate skills required to meet the criteria mentioned
in job descriptions. This issue is further compounded by a lack of continuous professional development
opportunities in the sector. There is also a deficit of female instructors in TVET providers, with some FGD
participants mentioning it was a key barrier to increasing female enrolment in agri-food sector-related
training.
Based on the information gathered from the foresight workshop, table 7 presents findings of the skills
needs and gaps analysis for priority occupations in the agri-food sector. For each occupation, availability
frequency was derived from the frequency of a specific course/training reported by TVET providers and
the degree to which the skill training relates to the occupation.
25 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Table 7. Training gap analysis for priority occupations in the agri-food sector
Meat and poultry Poultry rearing, livestock Inadequately No formal skills training is available
processing worker rearing available on poultry or livestock rearing.
Dairy processing
Pasteurizing, fermentation Not available
worker
Integrate comprehensive modules on food safety standards, quality control measures, and regulatory
compliance in vocational training curricula to ensure that workers are well-versed in maintaining high
standards in agri-food production.
Develop marketing training in food packaging and labelling techniques to meet industry standards
and enhance the marketability of agri-food products.
Provide training on the integration of automation and technology in agri-food production processes,
including the use of machinery for processing and packaging.
Skill development programmes on food processing – such as pickle, dry fish and seaweed food
processing – can be considered to promote entrepreneurship in the sector.
Summary Report 26
Annexes:
Available trades/specializations in
Programme Available trades/specialization in Cox’s Bazar
Chattogram
Architecture Technology
Civil Technology Architecture Technology
Diploma Construction Technology Civil Technology
Electrical Technology Electrical Technology
Environmental Technology
Building Maintenance
Civil Construction Building Maintenance
Electrical Maintenance Civil Construction
SSC (Voc.)
Electrical Maintenance Work Electrical Maintenance Work
General Electrical Works General Electrical Works
Welding and Fabrication
Architecture Technology
Civil Construction
Architecture Drafting
Electrical and Welding
Electrical House Wiring
Electrical House Wiring
Electrical House Wiring and Maintenance
Electrical Installation and Maintenance
Electrical Installation and Maintenance
NSC Electrical Technology
General Electrician
(Levels 1–5) Electrical Works and Maintenance
Masonry
General Electrician
Plumbing
Masonry
Tiles Fittings
Plumbing
Welding
Plumbing and Pipe Fittings
Welding / Welding and Fabrication
Carpentering
Civil Technology
Electrical House Wiring
Block Building
Electrical Installation and Maintenance
Electrical Technology
Electrical Technology
Masonry
Electrical Works
Non-formal Plumbing
Electrical Works and Maintenance
Rod Bending
Forklift Operations and Maintenance
Tiles Fittings
Plumbing
Welding
Plumbing and Pipe Fittings
Tiles Fittings
Welding
27 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Available trades/specializations in
Programme Available trades/specializations in Cox’s Bazar
Chattogram
Cooking Housekeeping
Hotel Management
Housekeeping
Sugar Art
Summary Report 28
Available trades/specializations in
Programme Available trades/specializations in Cox’s Bazar
Chattogram
Automobile Technology
Diploma
Marine Technology
Automotive Machine
Driving
Driving
Manual Driving
Auto Driving
Non-formal
Diesel Mechanics
Cycling
Scooter Driving
29 X Skills Demand and Supply Assessment in the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Region
Available trades/specializations in
Programme Available trades/specializations in Cox’s Bazar
Chattogram
Electronics Technology
Diploma Food Technology
Mechanical Technology
Power Technology
Argo Machinery
Electrical Works
Firm Machinery
General Electronics
SSC (Voc.) General Electronics
General Mechanics
General Mechanics
Mechanical Drafting
Consumer Electronics
Electronic Works
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Fitter
Mechanical Technology
Available trades/specializations in
Programme Available trades/specializations in Cox’s Bazar
Chattogram
Agri-based Food
SSC (Voc.) Food Processing and Preservation Food Processing and Preservation
Agricultural Livestock
NSC
Food Processing
(Levels 1–5)
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Crabs Cultivation
Bakery and Pastry
Dry Fish Processing
Fish and Seafood
Fish Cultivation
Fisheries
Livestock Rearing
Food Delivery
Oyster Cultivation
Homestead Gardening and Nut Cultivation
Non-accredited
Poultry Rearing
course Livestock Rearing
Salt Cultivation
Packaging
Seaweed Cultivation
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Seaweed Food and Beverage
Food Delivery
Vegetable Cultivation
Packaging
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Contact Details:
International Labour Organization (ILO)
ILO Sub-office, 127 South West Baharchara
Mukthijoddha Sarani, Cox’s Bazar-4700
Bangladesh.
Phone: +88 096787777471
panish and German spine reads from bottom to top
and German spine reads from bottom to top
Email : [email protected]
Web : www.ilo.org/cxb
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