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[๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฉ] Manpower Export: Prospects and Challenges.
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Unskilled workers still dominate manpower exports
SM Najmus Sakib
Published :
Jan 29, 2025 00:35
Updated :
Jan 29, 2025 00:35

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Unskilled migrants continue to dominate the manpower export in the country despite an overall decline in the sector.

Experts have attributed this negative trend to a lack of vocational education and language skills, among other limitations.

The Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) has categorised migrant workers into four skill levels: professionals, skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers.

Doctors, engineers, architects, teachers, accountants, computer operators, pharmacists, nurses, foremen, diploma engineers, paramedics and salespeople are considered professionals while mechanics, welders, porters, electricians, painters, cooks, drivers, plumbers, garment workers and certified caregivers are skilled workers. On the other hand, farmers, gardeners and those working as assistant in garments and shops are considered semi-skilled workers and cleaners, domestic workers and menial workers are unskilled workers.

Bangladesh primarily participates in the semi-skilled and unskilled labour market. In 2024, 4.59 per cent of those who migrated abroad for work were professionals, 23.62 per cent were skilled, 17.56 per cent were semi-skilled and 54.23 per cent were unskilled.

Mohammad Shaheen, joint secretary at the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, told the FE that there are some worries about low-skilled manpower export. He admitted that the trend of sending unskilled manpower has its impact.

He highlighted the government initiatives like establishing training centres to improve the situation. He also laid stress on changing mindset of people who intend to migrate for employment in developed countries.

A report by the Refugee and Migratory Movement Research Unit (RMMRU) based on government data showed that the labour market for Bangladeshi workers shrank in 2024 compared to the previous year.

From January to November 2024, 906,000 men and women migrated for work, down from 1.3 million in 2023, which means a 30.8 per cent decrease in migration, said the RMMRU report.

Closure of labour markets in countries like Malaysia, the Maldives, Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) significantly contributed to the decreasing trend, which also led to a rise in sending unskilled workers. In 2024, the rate of unskilled worker migration rose by at least 4 percentage points compared to the previous year.

Migration expert Mohammad Jalal Uddin Sikder, also a teacher at North South University (NSU), told the FE that even if the government arranges training, it would hardly change the situation until there is a major shift towards vocational education.

Most of the middle-income families prioritise conventional education for their children, but it is necessary to focus on vocational education to catch the market for skilled manpower, he said.

He also highlighted language barriers as a critical issue, suggesting that a broader societal change is necessary. The Bangladeshi education system should incorporate at least two or three additional foreign languages, commonly used in other countries, into its curricula.

"This (learning foreign languages) is required to catch the market of skilled manpower. And, the government should introduce it in formal education curricula. We see in EU countries children learn at least three languages," he said, adding that training and skills are needed to develop a certain market.

About sending professionals, he noted that the process is far more complex than for regular migrant workers, as it involves long-duration examinations and complex procedures. Therefore, experts suggest G-2-G agreements to send professionals, he said. "We need to have bilateral agreement and cooperation to send professionals like doctors and engineers," said Mr. Sikder.​
 

Redesigning manpower export policy
Published :
Jan 31, 2025 23:20
Updated :
Jan 31, 2025 23:20

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The role migrant workers' remittance plays in the overall economy of Bangladesh cannot be overstated. Especially, it increases aggregate demand as well as stimulates non-farm activities in the rural economy. But of late, depressing developments on Bangladesh's overseas labour market are being reported. A recent report from Refugee and Migratory Movement Research Unit (RMMRU) says that between January and November of 2024, 0.9 million migrant workers joined overseas jobs. But that number is 30.8 per cent fewer than that of the previous year (2023) at 1.3 million, RMMRU adds. The cause of this fall in the foreign-bound migrant workers last year compared to 2023 is the closure of the labour markets for Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia, the Maldives, Oman and the UAE.

While presenting RMMRU findings recently, its head for instance, attributed this shrinkage of the country's overseas labour market to 'systemic corruption and irregularities' in the migrant workers' recruitment process. In this connection, the closure of the Malaysian market in May2004, three and a half years after its reopening in 2021, is a case in point. Embezzlement of an enormous sum of money by a nexus of Bangladeshi and Malaysian fraudsters, reportedly, led to that disastrous consequence. Then the use of fake documents halted migration to Italy and Serbia. Add to this the political instability due to student-mass uprising (of July-August last year) which negatively impacted the workers' overseas migration during the second half of 2024.

These apparently are the issues responsible for last year's record fall in the number of overseas-bound migrant workers. But when it comes to the question of persistent decline in the demand for Bangladeshi migrant labourers in the major overseas markets such as KSA, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Malaysia, etc., it obviously relates to their level of skills. In fact, the major exporters of skilled manpower in those job markets include Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, India, etc., who are replacing unskilled and semi-skilled labour in those markets supplied by Bangladesh. In this context, a report carried by this paper says that more than 54 per cent of the workers sent abroad from Bangladesh last year were unskilled.

The proportions of skilled, semi-skilled and professionals, on the other hand, were over 23 per cent, close to 18 per cent and 4.6 per cent respectively. Clearly, the overwhelming proportion of last year's foreign-bound workers was unskilled. Also, the proportion of unskilled migrant workers last year was higher than that of 2023 by 4.0 percentage points. Against this backdrop, it is time the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) took a long, hard look at the shrinking overseas market for Bangladeshi manpower and find ways to improve the situation. First, the authorities need to address the prevailing corruption that ultimately tells upon Bangladesh's reputation as an exporter of manpower abroad. Since the demand for skilled labour is rising in the traditional overseas markets, the policy of manpower export is required to be set in line with the market trend. Increasing the proportions of foreign-bound skilled workers and professionals is an answer. On this score, the BMET is learnt to have categorised mechanics, welders, electricians, plumbers, garment workers, certified care givers, etc as skilled. According to this classification, semi-skilled workers include farmers, gardeners, shop assistants, etc., while cleaners, domestic helps, menial workers, among others, have been categorised as unskilled labourers. The professionals, according to this definition, are the doctors, engineers, teachers, accountants, computer operators, pharmacists, nurses, etc. So the strategy should be to stress vocational education to create skilled workers as well as redesign the country's education curricula in order to generate a more productive workforce.​
 

Bangladesh saw significant drop in overseas migration in 2024: Report
UNB
Published :
Feb 05, 2025 22:01
Updated :
Feb 05, 2025 22:02

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Bangladesh witnessed a significant decline in overseas migration in 2024, with the total number of migrant workers dropping to 1,009,146, a 27.4 per cent decrease from 1,390,811 in 2023, according to the Ami Probashi's Annual Report.

Despite the decline, a noteworthy trend has emergedโ€”female participation in Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET) registration has nearly doubled compared to the previous year, signaling a shift in gender dynamics in overseas employment.

Saudi Arabia remained the top choice for Bangladeshi migrants, absorbing 62.17 per cent of total migration with approximately 627,000 migrants departing for Saudi Arabia.

This continued preference is driven by high demand for both skilled and unskilled labour, particularly in infrastructure development.

In contrast, Malaysia, the second-largest destination, saw a decline in migration numbers, with only 93,000 workers moving there in 2024.

This drop is attributed to changes in Malaysiaโ€™s foreign labor policies, which have made migration more restrictive compared to previous years. A noticeable decline in migration numbers was observed after May 2024.

Migration trends were also likely disrupted by broader socio-economic and political factors.

The July uprising and the subsequent economic instability may have contributed to a slowdown in migration, as uncertainty over job security and future opportunities could have discouraged many potential workers from seeking employment abroad.

In addition, General Training Enrollmentโ€”a key indicator of skilled workforce preparationโ€”also fell sharply, decreasing from 236,270 enrollments in 2023 to 112,166 in 2024, reflecting shifting trends in job preparedness and overseas employment demand.

Female registration at BMET rose from 2.78 per cent in 2023 to 4.79 per cent in 2024, indicating growing interest and opportunities for women in overseas employment.

The report also highlights a changing preference among female workers, with more women enrolling in tech-related training courses such as computer operation, graphics design, and AutoCAD drafting, showing a shift towards skilled professions rather than traditional domestic work. More than 700 female workers also migrated as 'skilled workers' in 2024, demonstrating a push towards higher-paying, professional roles.

Experts suggest that enhanced training programmes, gender-inclusive policies, and better foreign labor agreements could help revitalize the migration sector and increase skilled labour exports, ensuring sustainable remittance inflows in the coming years.​
 

Bangladeshโ€™s migration crisis
Sohana Samrin Chowdhury 28 February, 2025, 00:00

FOR decades, Bangladeshโ€™s economy has been fuelled by remittances sent by millions of its migrant workers. These men and women, mostly employed in low-wage sectors in the Gulf states and Malaysia, work tirelessly in construction, domestic service, and factories, sending home billions of dollars each year. In 2024, Bangladesh received almost $27 billion in remittances, a crucial pillar of the nationโ€™s economic stability.

Yet, beneath these figures lies a deeper issue: Bangladesh is exporting labour, not talent. While countries like India and the Philippines are sending skilled professionals abroad, Bangladesh continues to supply cheap labour, leaving its workforce vulnerable to low wages, poor working conditions, and economic instability. This outdated model must change.

As the world transitions towards a knowledge-driven economy, Bangladesh must rethink its migration strategy. Instead of exporting workers with limited skills and earning potential, it must equip its people with the expertise to secure high-value jobs in developed economies. Countries like the United Kingdom and Canada have successfully implemented data-driven, skills-based migration policies. Without decisive action, Bangladesh risks being left behind in the evolving global labour market.

Strategic migration models

The UK: a data-driven immigration system

The United Kingdom has implemented a skills-based immigration system that aligns migration with economic needs. The Migration Advisory Committee, an independent body, continuously updates the Shortage Occupation List using real-time employer surveys, big data analysis, and economic forecasting. This ensures that migrants entering the UK fill genuine skill gaps rather than contributing to an oversupply of labour.

For instance, when the UK faced a shortage of healthcare professionals, it fast-tracked visas for foreign nurses and care workers. This evidence-based approach guarantees that migration directly supports economic growth while providing stable career pathways for skilled workers.

Canada: a future-proof migration policy

Canada, facing an ageing population and workforce shortages in key industries, has developed one of the most sophisticated skills-based migration systems globally. The Canadian Occupational Projection System forecasts labour demand over the next two decades, enabling policymakers to adjust immigration policies accordingly.

Through its Express Entry system, Canada prioritises highly skilled professionals, particularly in STEM fields, healthcare, and skilled trades. In 2023, recognising shortages in construction, Canada actively recruited foreign electricians, welders, and engineers. A well-trained Bangladeshi professional with the right certification could qualify for permanent residency and a high-paying job in Canada, a stark contrast to the limited opportunities available in the Gulf.

Bangladeshโ€™s current migration model: a race to the bottom

BANGLADESH continues to prioritise quantity over quality in its migration strategy. Instead of developing and exporting high-value professionals, the country remains a primary source of cheap labour. The consequences are severe:

73% of Bangladeshi migrants work in low-skilled jobs.

Only 17% hold skilled positions.

A mere 0.33% enter high-paying professions.

Consider Abdur Rahman, a 27-year-old from Cumilla, who borrowed Tk 5 lakh to pay a recruitment agent for a job in Dubai. He was promised work as a machine operator but, upon arrival, found himself in manual labour for half the expected salary. Lacking certification or leverage, he endured years of exploitation before returning home with little savings and no new skills.

Contrast this with Arvind, a 29-year-old Indian IT professional, who applied for Canadaโ€™s Express Entry program, secured a job at a top software firm in Toronto, and now earns a six-figure salary. While Abdur Rahman struggles, Arvind thrives. This disparity underscores why Bangladesh must transition from exporting labour to exporting skills.

A roadmap for a skills-based migration model

FOR Bangladesh to transition towards a high-skilled migration strategy, it must take some decisive steps:

Invest in data-driven workforce planning

Bangladesh must establish a Bangladesh Occupational Projection System, modelled after Canadaโ€™s COPS, to accurately predict labour market demands. Integrating real-time job market analytics from GCC countries, Malaysia, and Europe will help ensure that training programs align with global workforce needs. A Migration Intelligence Unit within BMET should be set up to analyse workforce trends and shape future policies.

Prioritise skills-based migration pathways

A points-based visa system, similar to the UKโ€™s model, must be introduced to prioritise professionals in high-demand fields. Expanding recognition of prior learning programs would allow workers to obtain internationally recognised certifications before migration, increasing their employability and earning potential. Additionally, government-backed recruitment agencies should replace unregulated middlemen to ensure ethical migration practices.

Strengthen public-private partnerships in workforce training

Bangladesh must forge industry partnerships to align education with employer needs. A National Talent Mobility Council, composed of government officials, training institutes, and corporate leaders, should oversee a structured, demand-driven training framework. Encouraging collaboration between universities and employers can bridge the skills gap and foster a more competitive workforce.

Leverage technology for transparent and efficient migration

A Bangladesh Skills Portal, modeled after Canadaโ€™s Job Bank, could centralize job postings, certification programs, and digital labor contracts. This platform would facilitate connections between skilled workers and global employers, ensuring transparency in recruitment processes.

Shift from remittance dependency to a talent export strategy

Bangladesh must move beyond its current remittance-dependent model by focusing on equipping its workforce with high-value skills. Engaging the Bangladeshi diaspora through mentorship programs and skills transfer initiatives could enhance knowledge exchange and professional networking, positioning Bangladesh as a leader in global labour mobility.

The moment for change is now

Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. It can either continue exporting cheap labour, exposing its workforce to exploitation and economic stagnation, or pivot toward a skills-based migration model that prioritises long-term national prosperity. The strategies adopted by the UK and Canada provide a roadmap for this transformation.

By integrating skills intelligence, strategic workforce planning, and targeted migration policies, Bangladesh can empower its workforce and secure a competitive position in the global labour market.

Migration should not be merely about movement โ€” it must be about mobility, opportunity, and economic empowerment.

The question remains: Will Bangladesh take the leap?

Sohana Samrin Chowdhury has worked with the International Labour Organization, UNDP and WFP, focusing on skills development, labour migration, and workplace safety policy.​
 

Female labour migration from Bangladesh continues to drop
Rashad Ahamad 05 March, 2025, 23:19

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Representational image. | New Age file photo

Female migration from Bangladesh to other countries continued to decrease significantly mainly due to the lack of workersโ€™ language barriers, skills and safety issues.

Female migration continued to decline gradually for the past three years but the total number of labour migrants โ€“ both male and female โ€“ from Bangladesh increased during the period, said the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training statistics.

According to the BMET, female workersโ€™ migration from Bangladesh has declined by 42 per cent in the past two years. Of them, 20 per cent declined in 2024 in comparison with the number in 2023 and 28 per cent in 2023 in comparison with the number in 2022.

The government data showed that 105,466 women migrated from Bangladesh in 2022. The number decreased to 76,108 in 2023 and it dropped further to 61,158 in 2024.

The sector insiders said that the migration of Bangladeshi female workers dropped as they failed to compete with the workers from alternative sources like the Philippines, Sri Lanka, India, African countries, and Nepal in terms of working skills for their poor knowledge of languages in the destination countries.

Though the number of female migrants from Bangladesh declined significantly over the years, there was no fact-finding research in this regard.

The recruiting agents, however, said that they had lost interest in sending female workers abroad because of high migration costs and rights activistsโ€™ allegations of an increasing number of rights violations.

Bangladeshi women mostly migrate as domestic workers and garment sector workers while some migrate as cleaners, tailors, housekeepers, labours, caregivers, and staff of healthcare and other sectors.

The research and policy wing joint secretary for the expatriatesโ€™ welfare and overseas employment, Ayesha Haq, admitted that the ministry did not have information about the reasons for the declining number of female migrants.

Bangladeshi Ovibashi Mahila Sromik Association general secretary Sheikh Rumana said that the government had failed to control the migration cost over the past couple of years.

โ€˜Many women lost interest in migrating from Bangladesh since the migration cost was high. Families want to invest for boys rather than girls,โ€™ she said.

She also said that political instability in Bangladesh and other countries also impacted negatively on female labour migration.

Bangladesh Nari Sramik Kendra executive director Sumaiya Islam said that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was the top destination for Bangladeshi women over the years but the country was now hiring female workers from African countries like South Africa and Sudan.

KSA is the top employer of Bangladeshi female workers which employed 5,24,788 female workers since 2004. In percentage, the country alone employed 45 per cent of the total migrated female workers from Bangladesh during the period.

At least 11,62,791 women migrated from Bangladesh to around 90 countries in 20 years between 2004 and 2024. The total number of labour migrants from Bangladesh โ€“ both male and female โ€“ during the period was 1,25,24,298.

Of them, five countriesโ€”Lebanon, KSA, Jordan, UAE and Omanโ€” hired over one lakh female workers each.

Migration experts said that Bangladesh saw a boom in female migration in 2017 when the highest 1,21,925 women migrated from Bangladesh. Since then, it was above one lakh until Covid-19 outbreak in 2019.

Rights activists observed that the number of aspirant female migrants was still high but they were not skilled. They suggested the government to review the training module to make it more effective.

Presently, every female worker must have two months of training to secure any overseas job.

Over the past years, a number of destination countries including Oman, Bahrain and Mauritius have suspended hiring workers from Bangladesh while Lebanon and KSA have reduced hiring Bangladeshi female workers significantly.

The BMET additional director general for employment, Mohammad Abdul Hi, said that though they had no research on this, his personal observation was that they could not open new markets.

He said that they were working to ensure skilled training based on global demand.

Labour rights activists urged the authorities to provide training on need-based skills and safety for women in destination countries to boost female migration.​
 

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