business
Bonayan gets prestigious SDG Brand Champion Award 2023
Bonayan, the largest private sector-driven afforestation programme, has been honored with the prestigious SDG Brand Champion Award in Climate & Environment category at the SDG Brand Champion Awards 2023 for its impactful nationwide afforestation initiative.
“Akij Bashir Group Presents SDG Brand Champion Awards 2023 in Association with Aspire to Innovate (a2i)” award gala was held at Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden on Friday, said a press release.
This prestigious accolade, initiated by the Sustainability Brand Forum, awarded 24 initiatives - 11 winners and 13 honourable mentions. This award aimed to recognise and honour private organisations and brands that have contributed outstandingly to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Bangladesh, it added.
The accolade was received by Mr. Golam Mainuddin, alongside him, Mr. Jorge Luis Macedo, Mr. Ahmed Raihan Ahsanullah, and Mr. Sazzad Hossain on behalf of Bonayan.
Bonayan started in 1980, responding to the call for mass plantation from the Forest Department of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Since then, Bonayan has come forward to help the government realize the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) targets and is now supporting the government to achieve SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) targets of enhancing forest area as a proportion of the total land area of Bangladesh to 18% and to increase the area of tree-covered land to 25% in relation to the total land area of Bangladesh by 2030.
Every year, Bonayan distributes 5 million saplings of fruit, forestry, and medical species.
The initiative is operating in 22 districts across Bangladesh and has provided over 12 crore saplings to date, free of cost, consisting of over 25 different types of plant species.
Over the years, Bonayan, through effective public-private partnerships, has worked to create several impact zones across the country and is committed to continuing this drive for a sustainable future.
Bonayan is very proud to have received the prestigious Prime Minister’s National Award five times and the Chief Advisor’s Award once. It has also earned international recognition, including the “Asia Responsible Entrepreneurship Award” for Green Leadership from Enterprise Asia, and the “Bangladesh Innovation Award 2021”.
Bangabazar fire: FBCCI donates Tk 1 crore to suffering traders
The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) has handed over a cheque of Tk 1 crore in grants to rehabilitate the traders who have faced damages in the recent devastating fire at Bangabazar clothing market in Dhaka.
The chamber's President Md. Jashim Uddin handed over the cheque to the BangaBazar Complex Dokan Malik Samity at the FBCCI Icon, Dhaka on Saturday.
FBCCI president said, "Any kind of fire incident is unfortunate for any businessman. I was out of the country when the fire incident happened in Bangabazar. The fire was so fierce that everything was burnt to ashes, nothing was left there. I felt that we should contribute even a little in this crisis. That's why we decided to help with Tk 1 crore to the affected traders.”
Jashim Uddin, also the new SAARC Chamber President said, "We are handing over this check today as per our commitment. I think all capable businessmen should stand by small businesses in various natural calamities and fire incidents”.
Jashim Uddin said businessmen must follow compliance. However, blame should not be put on the businessmen only, but all those concerned should be brought under question, including the companies that issue licenses for commercial buildings and factories.
To avoid such accidents in the future, the FBCCI president urged the government to take steps to build permanent and modern buildings for the affected traders, he said.
The FBCCI head also urged the business leaders and market committees to be aware of the risky markets and to do the necessary reforms.
FBCCI is working with the government to ensure fire safety in factories in the country, he said, "We have formed the Fire Safety Council to increase the awareness about fire safety in the private sector."
So far 5000 companies have been visited through this safety council. This safety council will visit a total of 44 thousand companies across the country. Apart from this, fire-fighting training is being given in every factory, said Jashim.
He directed Bangladesh Dokan Malik Samity and FBCCI Fire Safety Council to work together to ensure fire safety in shops and shopping malls.
FBCCI Senior Vice President Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu said that the fire service unit has marked the Bangabazar as risky and warned several times, but the matter has not been given importance by the market committee.
He urged everyone to be more responsible instead of blaming the government.
Bangladesh Dokan Malik Samity President Helal Uddin said that the existing markets in the capital are being inspected. If any type of risk is noticed, they will be warned as well as instructions will be given to reform them within the stipulated time.
FBCCI Vice President Md Amin Helaly, Md Habib Ullah Dawn, Directors, Secretary General Mohammad Mahfuzul Hoque, Head of the FBCCI Safety Council Brigadier General Abu Nayeem Md. Shahidullah (Retd.), President and Secretary of Bangbazar Complex Dokan Malik Somity, and other business leaders were present at the program.
Job Circular in Rampal power plant 2023: 12 people will be appointed in five category posts
Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company (Pvt.) Limited (BIFPCL), a joint venture of Bangladesh Power Development Board and India's NTPC Limited, has released a recruitment circular. Under this institution, 12 people will be appointed in five category posts in Rampal project. Interested candidates should apply online.
Job circulars in Rampal power plant in 2023
1. Post Name: Assistant Manager (HR/Admin)
No. of Posts: 3
Eligibility: Must have a Master's Degree with Graduation in HR/Management/Public Administration from a recognized university or MBA (HR) degree in such subject. Third Class/Department is not acceptable at any level of education. GPA should be 3.5 on a scale of 5 and CGPA 3.0 on a scale of 4. Should be fluent in Bengali and English with good computer skills. Experience in related field will be preferred.
Age: Maximum 30 years
Work Place: Rampal Project Site, Bagerhat
Basic Salary: TK.52,000
Read more: Here's how you can apply for a Canadian work visa from Bangladesh
2. Post Name: Assistant Manager (Law)
No. of Posts: 1
Qualification: Bachelor's Degree in Law from a recognized University. Master's Degree in Law will be preferred. Third Class/Department is not acceptable at any level of education. GPA should be 3.5 on a scale of 5 and 3.0 on a scale of CGPA 4. Should be fluent in Bengali and English with good computer skills. Experience in related field will be preferred.
Age: Maximum 30 years
Work Place: Rampal Project Site, Bagerhat
Basic Salary: TK.52,000
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3. Post Name: Imam (Staff Level-3)
No. of Posts: 1
Eligibility: Fazil or equivalent pass from recognized Madrasah/Institution. Must have Master's degree in Al-Fiqh and Legal Studies from any Aliya Madrasah, Kamil or Dawrae Hadith from any Qawmi Madrasah or any university. Third Class/Department is not acceptable at any level of education. GPA should be 3.5 on a scale of 5 and 3.0 on a scale of CGPA 4. Should be fluent in Bengali and English with good computer skills.
Must have at least five years working experience as Imam/Mufti in a big institution/mosque. Preference will be given if Hafez-e Qur'an and Ilme Qiraat are certified.
Age: Maximum 45 years
Work Place: Rampal Project Site, Bagerhat
Basic Salary: TK.26,000
Read more: Jobs Circular in Dhaka Custom House 2023: Custom House, Dhaka will hire 48 posts
4. Post Name: Priest (Staff Level-3)
No. of Posts: 1
Qualification: Graduation or equivalent from a recognized institution. Must have at least five years work experience as priest/scholar in any big institution/temple. Third Class/Department is not acceptable at any level of education. GPA should be 3.5 on a scale of 5 and 3.0 on a scale of CGPA 4. Should be fluent in Bengali and English with good computer skills. Kavyatirtha or any such certificate will be given preference.
Age: Maximum 45 years
Work Place: Rampal Project Site, Bagerhat
Basic Salary: TK.26,000
Read more: Recruitment Circular in Bangladesh Army 2023
5. Post Name: Security Supervisor (Staff Level-IV)
No. of Posts: 6
Qualification: HSC or equivalent pass from recognized institution. Must have at least five years of work experience in the relevant field in a large organization. Third Class/Department is not acceptable at any level of education. GPA should be 2.0 on a scale of 5 and CGPA 4 on a scale of 2.25. Should be fluent in Bengali and English with good computer skills. Preference will be given to retired officers from Army/Navy/Air Force or BGB.
Age: Maximum 45 years
Work Place: Rampal Project Site, Bagerhat
Basic Salary: TK.23,000
Benefits: Basic salary along with housing allowance, medical facility, bonus, provident fund, gratuity, other fringe benefits will be provided as per the organization policy.
Type of Job: Initially three years contractual. The contract period is renewable upto the age of 60 years on the basis of satisfactory performance of the worker.
Age limit: Upper age limit for departmental candidates is 35 years for posts No. 1 and 2. Upper age limit is relaxable up to 32 years in case of children and grandchildren of veer freedom fighters/martyred veer freedom fighters.
Conditions: The persons appointed to the posts No. 1 and 2 have to sign the service bond to serve this organization for three years.
Read more: Ausbildung in Germany for Non-EU Students including Bangladesh
, How to apply in Rampal power plant jobs
Interested candidates should apply by filling the form on this website (http://bifpcl.teletalk.com.bd/bifpcl_new/) . Detailed information regarding recruitment can be known in this link. (http://bifpcl.teletalk.com.bd/bifpcl_new/docs/BIFPCL_3rd_Advertisement.pdf)
GP launches 'Platform SHE 4.0' to empower women thru mentorship
Grameenphone (GP), a pioneer in promoting gender equality and women empowerment, is thrilled to announce the launching of the fourth chapter of its signature mentorship program - Platform SHE.
The grand launch of 'Platform SHE 4.0' took place recently, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for the promising female candidates, said a press release.
Platform SHE comes as a testament to GP's unwavering commitment to nurture the next generation of female leaders, equipping them with the support and guidance they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Platform SHE 4.0 has identified 15 exceptional female talents within GP who will serve as mentors. The mentees were chosen through a rigorous and comprehensive selection process, ensuring that the most talented and hard-working young women received the opportunity to participate in this exclusive transformative experience.
Over a course of six months, the mentees will have the invaluable opportunity to gain insights into the professional world, attend self-development workshops, and acquire crucial skills necessary for their future endeavors.
Platform SHE 4.0 has been designed to create a nurturing and empowering environment, where young women can thrive and turn their dreams into reality.
Syed Tanvir Husain, chief human resources officer of GP, shared his thoughts on the power of mentorship during the launch event, saying, "Platform SHE 4.0 is here to enable bright minds embarking on their professional journey, equipping them with skills that are a prerequisite to shine in their relevant field.
The platform will not only inspire young women but also create an environment that fosters their growth, enabling them to reach new heights of success."
Through this program, Grameenphone aims to equip young women with the necessary skills and confidence to overcome barriers and excel in their respective fields, ultimately shaping them into influential figures.
Platform SHE 4.0 is set to make a profound impact on the lives of these talented mentees, igniting a spark within them that will drive them to achieve greatness. GP remains committed to empowering women and creating a society where gender equality is not just a goal but a reality.
FBCCI's Jashim Uddin takes over as President of SAARC Chamber
President of the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) Md. Jashim Uddin took charge as the president of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the apex trade body of the South Asian region, at the Hotel Intercontinental in Dhaka on Thursday.
He will be serving as the SAARC Chamber president in 2023–24.
The new president said that South Asia with its diversified resources and skilled workforce has tremendous potential to be the fastest-growing exporting region to the world.
“As we begin this new tenure, our region is experiencing rapid economic growth, but we must also confront a range of complex issues and barriers to trade that limits cross-border regional trade,” he said.
The Intra-trade among SAARC countries continues to be low ranging between 5-7% of total trade. In addition, this is declining every year, he said.
“On the other hand, we are seeing increased integration in other regional blocks. Intra-regional trade is over 40% in NAFTA, 68% in EU, 27% in ASEAN. Their economic integration is directly tied to their GDP per capita, higher productivity and, lower poverty and unemployment,” he added.
“It is imperative for us to draw lessons from the successes achieved by other regional agreements, and channel their experiences of regional identity and solidarity into our efforts to propel SAARC towards new heights,” he said.
It is the responsibility of the SAARC leaders to find innovative and sustainable solutions to these challenges, and to work together to create a brighter future for the people of the region, he opined.
The priority will be given to enhance collaboration on sectors with high growth potential such as information technology, manufacturing, energy, tourism, and agribusiness that derive tangible results, he added.
Jashim Uddin joined the Board of Bengal Group of Industries as director in 1983 while studying commerce at the Dhaka University.
He is the chairman of Bengal Commercial Bank Limited, vice-chairman of the Bengal Group of Industries and Bengal Media Corporation.
He is also the president of the Bangladesh Plastic Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association.
MCCI lauds EPB’s decision to extend validity of Registration Certificate
Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) has applauded the Export Promotion Bureau’s decision to extend the validity of Registration Certificate (Enrollment Certificate).
“MCCI extends its warmest appreciation to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) for their recent decision to extend the validity of the registration certificate, also known as the enrollment certificate, to five years,” said a press release on Thursday.
This progressive move by EPB demonstrates their commitment to fostering a thriving export environment in Bangladesh, the press release reads.
MCCI said the decision to extend the validity of the registration certificate from one year to five years is a significant milestone which would simplify procedures and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for exporters in the country.
“This proactive measure will undoubtedly facilitate the growth of Bangladesh's export industry and empower businesses to operate with greater efficiency and stability,” it added.
MCCI believes the EPB decision will enhance the confidence of exporters in Bangladesh and attract foreign investment by showcasing the government's commitment to supporting and promoting the export sector.
“The extended validity of the registration certificate will contribute to strengthening Bangladesh's position as a reliable and competitive player in the global market,” the press release reads.
The trade organization lauded government’s active cooperation with the private sector to promote trade and commerce by easing various regulatory processes.
“MCCI congratulates all government officials and private sector representatives who took relentless efforts to facilitate the ease of doing business in Bangladesh.”
BGMEA, Fred Hollows Foundation intend to collaborate on providing eye care to garment workers
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and the Fred Hollows Foundation have expressed willingness to collaborate in improving eye health of garment workers in Bangladesh.
Jennifer Gersbeck, an executive director of Global Advocacy and Dr. Najmus Sahar Sadiq, cluster director (Bangladesh, Myanmar and Nepal), of the Fred Hollows Foundation, met BGMEA Director Neela Hosna Ara to discuss how both organizations can work together in ensuring quality eye care services for the garment workers. The meeting was held at BGMEA Complex in Uttara, Dhaka on Wednesday, said a BGMEA media release.
BGMEA and the Fred Hollows Foundation intended to work collaboratively in providing eye treatment to the workers in the garment factories and BGMEA Health Centers and also raising awareness among them about eye care.
The collaboration aims to facilitate eye examination, diagnosis of eye conditions and access to treatment for workers in need.
BGMEA Director Neela Hosna Ara thanked the Fred Hollows Foundation for their willingness of support, saying BGMEA welcomes initiatives that aim to ensure well-being of garment workers.
The Fred Hollows Foundation is an Australia-based aid organization that focuses on treating and preventing blindness and other vision problems.
Time to explore vast untapped potential in SAARC region: FBCCI president
Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries President Md Jashim Uddin said on Wednesday that the SAARC has low intra-regional trade of 5 percent, which means there is still vast untapped potential.
“It is more important than ever we must recognise the significance of using our regional strengths and working together towards a common vision in a rapidly changing world,” he said.
The FBCCI president came up with the remarks while addressing at a conference on ‘Harnessing Regional Strengths: Importance of SAARC for South Asia’s Growth’ held on Wednesday in Dhaka, a press release said.
Jashim Uddin said the private sector holds the key to unlocking this opportunity by venturing into new markets, diversifying product portfolios, nurturing cross-border business collaborations and removing trade barriers including NTBs.
Setting up B2B mutual trade Facilitation committee of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry may be established for support, he said.
He also said that the world is witnessing significant shifts in the global economic landscape, and South Asia has a unique opportunity to position itself as a major player in the global trade and investment arena.
“The region is also blessed with immense resources, a young and talented workforce, and a growing consumer market. By rethinking our regional integration strategies, we can leverage our relationship to new heights,” he said.
SAARC CCI needs to activate its working groups and strengthen its capacity to in driving business conducive initiatives including transport and logistics infrastructure, harmonizing trade procedures, promoting digital connectivity, regional supply chains and private service sector collaborations including tourism, he observed.
The business leader said considering the close ties between Bangladesh and India for the geographical position it has a huge potential to grow business.
“We call upon both the governments of Bangladesh and India to enable an extension of LDC treatment to Bangladesh even after its graduation in 2026 up to the enforcement BD-India CEPA,” he said.
Strengthening mutual institutional coordination of trade support agencies, harmonising mutual trade rules, complimentary infrastructure development initiatives, regional energy resources for mutual benefit are the keys to sustainable and incremental development of trade and economy of the two countries, he mentioned.
Jashim said that Bangladesh’s growth trajectory and development success as an emerging strong middle-income country under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina can offer several complimentary advantages to South Asian counterparts. The private sector is keen to explore business collaborations in manufacturing, agro-processing, industrial machinery, clean energy, ICT, and FMCG among others with value chain linkages and market prospects.
During his welcome speech, FBCCI Senior Vice President Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu said that with promising ties among the 8 member countries, SAARC has the potential of being one of the most dynamic and emerging regions in the world. At present the region has consistently high growth as many countries and regions of the world tackle their slow-paced economic growth.
“Cross-border investments, simplifying customs procedures and developing efficient logistics networks within SAARC can facilitate trade. We may closely work with the apex trade bodies and initiate country-specific and regional programs for improving the economic cooperation and capacity building of our SME’s sector and tapping the potential of women-led SMEs for regional trade,” he added.
Former President of SAARC CCI (Sri Lanka) Ruwan Ediringehe said that SAARC nations have all 4Ms (Manpower, Market, Money and Materials) but they are yet to utilise it.
“SCCI has deliberately failed from last decade to pressurize their national chamber to enhance trade between the region. We need to take necessary actions to minimise those barriers,” he said.
Vice President of SAARC CCI (from Pakistan) Anjum Nisar said, “Other regional associations like EU, ASIAN, NAFTA are doing very good and they are getting regional benefit but it’s still unfortunate for us, that we couldn’t utilize SAARC till now. We have huge potential in the area of tourism, agriculture, fisheries, industries, human development and many more. It’s time we push the govt. of each country to seize the untapped opportunity in this region”.
Deputy Head and Senior Economic Affairs Officer at UN ESCAP South and South-West Asia Office Dr Rajan Sudesh Ratna was present as the guest speaker.
The programme was moderated by Dr M Masrur Reaz, chairman of the Policy Exchange of Bangladesh. Former Cabinet Minister of the government of the Maldives Mariyam Shakeela, former President of SAARC CCI (Sri Lanka) Ruwan Ediringehe, Vice President of SAARC CCI (Nepal), and Past President of the Federation of Nepal Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FNCCI) Chandi Raj Dhakal, Vice President of India -Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IBCCI) Sanjay Basu, EC Member of Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry Janaqa Siddiqui and others business leaders were present at the programme.
Transsion Holdings opens smart devices factory in Bangladesh
Transsion Holdings, a leading provider of smart devices and mobile services, has opened its ISMARTU factory to meet the growing demand for smart devices in Bangladesh.
Supported by the new factory, located in the Meghna Industrial Economic Zone, Narayanganj, was officially opened by Transsion Holdings Chairman George Zhu Vice President Arif Chowdhury, ISMARTU Bangladesh Managing Director Willy Cui and ISMARTU Bangladesh chief executive officer Rezwanul Hoque.Telecommunications Minister Mustafa Jabbar inaugurated the factory virtually as the chief guest while Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority Chairman Shaikh Yusuf Harun was the special guest on the occasion.BTRC VICE Chairman Engr Md. Mohiuddin Ahmed and Song Yang, Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Embassy of China in Bangladesh were guests of honour at the ceremony, it said.ISMARTU Technology BD Limited, a subsidiary of Transsion Holdings, represents smart brands such as TECNO, itel, Infinix, oraimo and Syinix in Bangladesh.With a population of over 170 million people and increasing consumer demand for affordable smartphones with high-end features, Bangladesh presents significant market opportunities, it said.Minister Mustafa Jabbar in his speech applauded Transsion for offering affordable devices in line with the government's commitment to bridging the digital gap among people.
Chairman Zhu acknowledged Bangladesh as a strategic market for the company's business expansion, said the release.Zhu expressed optimism that the investment in Bangladesh through ISMARTU would not only accelerate the company's local development but also contribute to the digitization and modernization process of Bangladesh.
The total investment of the first phase of the new ISMARTU factory is about USD 22 million, which demonstrates Transsion’s commitment to the local market. From design to construction, the new factory introduces more advanced production standards, with a more scientific layout to better meet the needs of modernized mobile phone production, the release added.The establishment of the factory is expected to generate employment opportunities for over 2,000 local individuals, contributing to the local economy and supporting career growth within the region, it said.Transsion remains dedicated to investing in education and training, empowering local talent, and fostering skill development, the press release added.
Here's how you can apply for a Canadian work visa from Bangladesh
Canada is a North American country known for its friendly people, stunning natural beauty, and thriving economy. It is the world's second-largest country in terms of land area and is located north of the United States. With a population of over 38 million, Canada is a multicultural country with a diverse range of languages and traditions.
For skilled Bangladeshi professionals, Canada offers many opportunities. The Canadian government will be increasing its immigration targets over the next few years, which means that there will be more opportunities for skilled foreign workers to come to Canada and contribute to its economy.
However, in order to work in Canada, foreign workers must obtain a work permit visa. This can be a complex process, and it is important for Bangladeshi workers to understand the requirements and procedures involved. Although there are work permits available for skilled workers and temporary workers, Bangladeshis have a great chance with acquiring skilled working visa.
Read more: Malta Work Permit Visa for Bangladeshi Citizens
Different types of work permits in Canada
Depending on the type of work, location in Canada, and the individual's qualifications, a few types of skilled migration programs are available in Canada. However, the process is a bit complex and time-consuming.
Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker
The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) stream is aimed at individuals with a minimum of one year of experience in a profession that requires a certain level of expertise. The Comprehensive Ranking System is used to determine the suitability of applicants for immigration. The most qualified individuals will be chosen for immigration based on their scores. You can calculate the score and check the eligibility from this link. https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/crs-tool.asp
For detailed CSR, follow this link: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/eligibility/criteria-comprehensive-ranking-system/grid.html
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