Toward a Bright Future

 

Since 2012, Citi Bangladesh has partnered with NGO Underprivileged Children's Educational Programs (UCEP) on a number of programs that are changing the lives of the young people and their families.

 

In the Dhaka region, 345 young people, ages 14 to 16, attended five general education and vocational schools to study financial and entrepreneurial skills, networking and creative problem-solving. Of those enrolled, 308 not only completed their pre-tech course but furthered their education by enrolling in advanced vocational courses at UCEP Technical School. Three hundred more students are now attending the schools.

 

This past June, the Citi Foundation approved another grant to support the UCEP Technical Education program, which provides basic financial and business training, and tailoring/industrial sewing instruction to 60 underprivileged youth, ages 16 to 20 years. Set to launch next year, the 18-month program comprises 12-month training and a 6-month post-training job placement.

 

During the 12-month training, Citi volunteers will provide career counseling, including guidance in financial literacy, basic strategies in managing a microbusiness, and savings and entrepreneurship. Thus, the youth will be ready to start their own small businesses by becoming microentrepreneurs or to start careers in the sewing industry or area of their choosing. This program not only helps to empower as individuals but also improve their standard of living.

 

Equipping these youths with employable skills aims to raise the socio-economic conditions of these underprivileged children and their families. These programs with UCEP fit well with the Citi Foundation's and Citi's aim to promote economic progress in communities around the world. They also deliver financial education and make financial capability a priority with these youths. These skills will stand the young people in good stead as they become employed or start their microenterprises.