BRAC Bank strengthens livelihoods of 78 disabled trainees

BRAC Bank has provided sewing machines to 78 individuals with hearing and speech impairments, including 44 women, under a skills development initiative aimed at enabling income generation and greater economic participation.

The beneficiaries completed a six-month training programme in tailoring and basic business management delivered through the bank’s “Aporajeyo Ami” initiative. The programme was implemented in partnership with the Bangladesh National Federation of the Deaf (BNFD) and was designed to equip participants with vocational skills suitable for self-employment or entry-level work in the tailoring sector.

According to a media release, the initiative reached a key milestone on 23 April 2026, when BRAC Bank and BNFD jointly organised a certificate awarding and equipment distribution event. At the ceremony, graduates received sewing machines alongside completion certificates, enabling them to begin independent work or establish home-based tailoring services.

As part of the training process, participants also took part in a practical exhibition showcasing garments and products they created during the course. The exhibition served as a demonstration of the skills acquired and the practical application of the training curriculum. So far, 20 participants have reportedly secured employment following completion of the programme.

The curriculum was developed with technical input from the Ministry of Social Welfare in coordination with programme stakeholders. It focused on tailoring skills development alongside basic entrepreneurial knowledge, with the aim of supporting long-term self-reliance.

BRAC Bank and BNFD continue to provide post-training monitoring and follow-up support to help participants transition into sustainable livelihoods. This includes tracking progress and assisting graduates as they begin income-generating activities using the tools provided.

Senior officials from both organisations highlighted the structured nature of the training and its role in enhancing accessibility to skills development opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Programme Overview

The initiative forms part of structured efforts to expand vocational training access and support income-generation pathways for people with hearing and speech impairments, focusing on practical skills and post-training support mechanisms.