On 26 October 2026, a day-long orientation programme for the Skills Training for Advancing Resources (STAR) Project was held in Badalgachhi, Naogaon, implemented by Ghashful with technical support from the BRAC Skills Development Programme (BRAC SDP).
The project aims to connect young people with practical, market-relevant skills so they can build livelihoods within their own communities. Through a six-month apprenticeship model, participants will learn directly from experienced local tradespeople—combining hands-on technical learning with basic entrepreneurial skills.
The approach is a modern adaptation of the traditional ustad–shagred model, where learning happens through practice, mentorship, and real workplace experience.
During the orientation, participants discussed the apprenticeship workplan, local employment opportunities, market demand for different trades, and pathways to jobs or self-employment after completing the training.
Representing Ghashful were Assistant Director, Microfinance Sayeedur Rahman Khan, Manager, Internal Audit Mohammad Wahid Jaber Chowdhury, Project Coordinator Sirajul Islam, Branch Coordinator Mosharraf Hossain, and Program Officer Khairul Islam. Local representatives, parents, young apprentices, and field staff also attended.
For these young people, the programme marks more than the start of training—it is the beginning of a pathway toward skills, confidence, and economic independence.