A delegation from the British High Commission and The Asia Foundation visited the Skill Institute of Technology (SKILL-IT), Bagerhat, an initiative of the Latif Master Foundation, on Monday, 14 September 2026.
The delegation included Ms Louise Bannon, Governance Adviser, British High Commission; Ms Sarah L. Taylor, Team Leader, The Asia Foundation; Ms Shahnaz Karim, Governance Adviser, British High Commission; Ms Rosie Coombes, Political Counsellor, British High Commission; and Mr Rafiqul Islam, Executive Director, Rupantar.
During the visit, the delegation observed the ongoing training activities, training facilities and various skills development initiatives of SKILL-IT. The visitors also took part in an exchange meeting with representatives of local civil society organisations and development organisations.
The discussion focused on developing skilled human resources for overseas employment, reducing unemployment and expanding employment opportunities for young people. Particular emphasis was placed on caregiving and Japanese language training, alongside other demand-driven vocational skills, in response to emerging opportunities in international labour markets.
The participants also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships, local capacity development and the effective utilisation of local resources and potential to create sustainable employment and development opportunities in Bagerhat. Strengthening collaboration among local institutions, civil society, the private sector and development partners was identified as an important pathway for advancing human resource development in the region.
The meeting also explored potential areas of future collaboration between The Asia Foundation and Latif Master Foundation, particularly in skills development, youth employment, good governance, capacity building and locally led development initiatives.
The delegation appreciated the multifaceted development initiatives of the Latif Master Foundation, particularly its work in education, skills development, employment, social services and humanitarian activities aimed at strengthening the capacity of local communities.
During the visit, the delegation also had the opportunity to enjoy a cultural programme organised by the Latif Master Foundation, showcasing local culture and community participation. The cultural performance added a meaningful and engaging dimension to the visit and allowed the guests to experience the Foundation’s commitment to preserving and promoting local cultural heritage.
Dr Md. Faridul Islam, former Secretary to the Government of Bangladesh and Founder of Latif Master Foundation, coordinated the visit and the exchange programme. He briefed the delegation on the activities of Latif Master Foundation, SKILL-IT and its ongoing and future development initiatives.
The visit and exchange meeting are expected to contribute to strengthening collaboration in skills development, employment generation, local resource mobilisation and public-private partnerships, while creating new opportunities for sustainable development and human resource development in Bagerhat.
