A Promising Future for Skills Development in Bangladesh

In 2012, Mrs. Eng. Sadia Sharmin-Khan and her husband, Shahbaz Khan, founded the Sadman Skill Development Institute (SSDI) in Jashore, Bangladesh. Their mission is simple yet powerful : to equip young people with the skills they need to find jobs. Through their dedication, SSDI has transformed many lives.

A significant milestone for SSDI is its selection for the ASSET project, a major government initiative supported by the World Bank. The ASSET project aims to train over one million young people and workers across Bangladesh in essential skills for the future. It focuses on enhancing technical and vocational education, with a strong emphasis on inclusion—ensuring access for women, disadvantaged groups, and people with disabilities. With substantial funding from the World Bank, ASSET is set to create a more skilled and competitive workforce in Bangladesh.

Through this project, SSDI can now expand its training programs across 13 different trades, ranging from web design and digital marketing to rod binding, electrical installation, and masonry. This opportunity is immense, but it also presents the challenge of rapidly scaling up operations to meet the project’s demands.

To navigate this crucial phase, SSDI sought strategic guidance from PUM.

Yolanda Ulenaers

PUM expert Educational Institutes

“As a PUM expert, my role has been to provide advice on structuring and scaling operations effectively while maintaining the high quality of training that SSDI is known for.

The ASSET project is about more than just skills training—it is about creating equal opportunities for all. By investing in modern training programs, employment support, and inclusive education, the project ensures that no one is left behind.”

SSDI’s selection for the ASSET project is a testament to its impact. With a strong strategy and continued commitment, SSDI is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce of Bangladesh. I am confident that an exciting journey lies ahead for SSDI.