By Ritu Robi Das from Manikganj
Six women from marginalized communities in Manikganj have taken an important step toward economic independence after completing a 15-day sewing training organized by the local Department of Social Services.
The intensive course equipped participants with practical skills in measuring, cutting, garment making, and operating modern sewing machines, significantly improving both their technical abilities and self-confidence.
Unlike many training programmes that end with certificates alone, this initiative also provided practical support for self-employment. Upon successful completion, each participant received a government certificate and BDT 56,750 as start-up capital to establish or expand a tailoring business.
BARCIK played a key role in identifying and informing disadvantaged women from its working areas about the opportunity. Although 25 women were selected through a screening process by the Department of Social Services, six BARCIK-supported women were among the successful participants, demonstrating effective collaboration between government and civil society.
The participants expressed optimism about their future. Nishita Rabi Das, who lost her father, said she would use the financial support to continue her education, easing the burden on her mother, who works as a domestic worker. Champa Rabi Das said she would save the money for future security while using her improved tailoring skills to earn an income despite her husband’s drug addiction.
The initiative illustrates how combining vocational training with financial assistance can empower disadvantaged women, strengthen household livelihoods, and create sustainable pathways out of poverty.