MTB Foundation, UCEP join hands to launch ‘MUSTI’

MTB Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Mutual Trust Bank PLC (MTB), and UCEP Bangladesh, a leading non-governmental organization, have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to establish the MTB UCEP Skills Training Institute (MUSTI) in Mymensingh, according to a press release.

The three-year initiative, running from July 2025 to June 2028, initially aims to provide market-relevant skills training to 1,200 disadvantaged youth aged 17–35. Participants will complete a six-month (360-hour) program in five high-demand trades: Electrical Installation and Maintenance, Tailoring and Dress Making, Beautification, Bakery and Pastry Production, and Graphic Design. Through this partnership, the MUSTI project seeks to generate significant socio-economic impact by enhancing income opportunities for disadvantaged youth and women. The initiative is designed to address local skill gaps, foster professional growth, and promote sustainable livelihoods.

The launch event, held at the MTB Foundation head office in Dhaka, was attended by Rashed Chowdhury, Chairman, MTB Board of Directors; KhwajaNargis Hossain, Director, MTB Board & Chairman, MTB Foundation; Syed Mahbubur Rahman, Managing Director & CEO, MTB; and Samia Chowdhury, Chief Executive Officer of MTB Foundation, along with Uzma Chowdhury, CPA, Vice-Chairperson, UCEP Board of Governors; Dr. Mohammad Alauddin, Former Chairperson, UCEP Board of Governors; A. Matin Chowdhury, Former Chairperson, UCEP Board of Governors; and Dr. Md. Abdul Karim, Executive Director, UCEP Bangladesh. Senior management of both organizations were present at the event. Speakers emphasized the importance of equipping youth with industry-standard skills to meet both local and international labor market demands, with particular focus on opportunities in Eurasian countries

The MUSTI project will offer demand-driven training aligned with the National Technical & Vocational Qualification Framework (NTVQF), certified by the National Skill Development Authority (NSDA). Graduates will also benefit from a dedicated job placement program to support their smooth entry into the workforce.

By addressing critical skill gaps and promoting sustainable livelihoods, the MTB Foundation–UCEP MUSTI initiative is set to create lasting socio-economic impact, empowering communities and transforming lives in the Mymensingh region.