Asif Nazrul, Advisor to the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, has announced the construction of a dedicated hospital in Bangladesh for expatriates. Funded by the expatriates themselves, the hospital will be owned and operated for their benefit. He also mentioned the inauguration of a new Expatriate Welfare Lounge to further support returning migrant workers.

He made these announcements on Saturday (May 31) during the inauguration of a skill development program for SSC candidates at the Technical Training Centers (TTC) in Kalihati and Nagarpur, Tangail.

Nazrul stated that the launch of a specialized skill trade program in Tangail is the first of its kind in the country. Initially, 6,000 SSC examinees will receive training under this program, aimed at equipping them with practical skills for better employment opportunities abroad.

"Global labor markets are increasingly favoring skilled workers over unskilled or semi-skilled laborers," he said. "This initiative is a foundational step to prepare our youth for that demand."

He emphasized that the six-month gap following SSC exams is an ideal time to train students in areas like computer literacy and graphic design. These skills will significantly enhance their chances of securing quality jobs overseas.

Speaking on international employment prospects, Nazrul shared that since assuming office, he has facilitated new employment opportunities in countries like Serbia, Romania, and other parts of Europe. Japan has offered to recruit 100,000 Bangladeshi workers, and Malaysia has expressed interest in hiring the highest number of workers from Bangladesh. He also noted continued recruitment promises from Saudi Arabia and Jordan. However, he acknowledged some complications in Bahrain and assured that efforts are underway to resolve them.

Highlighting government support for expatriates, he mentioned that loan facilities have been made more accessible through the Expatriate Welfare Bank.

The event was presided over by Tangail Deputy Commissioner Sharifa Haque. Among others present were Director General of the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) Saleh Ahmad Mozaffer and Tangail Superintendent of Police Mizanur Rahman, along with officials from various government departments.