News & Events
A comprehensive basic training program was organized from 15 to 24 October 2024 for newly appointed officers of the Partner Organizations implementing the Sustainable Microenterprise and Resilient Transformation (SMART) project. The training aimed to equip the officers with essential skills and knowledge required for effective project implementation.
The training was inaugurated on October 15, 2024, at the Padakkhep Institute of Development and Management in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, by Gokul Chandra Biswas, Project Coordinator of the SMART project. He highlighted the unique nature of the training, stating, “Such a session has never been organized before, as this project differs significantly from other microenterprise initiatives. Due to its complex nature, we need to understand the basics at the outset to ensure successful field implementation.”
The training included 80 officers recruited across 9 sub-projects under the project. Conducted by the officials of SMART Project Management Unit, over three days in three separate batches, the training sessions were designed to cover a broad range of critical areas that are essential for the successful execution of project activities.
The training agenda included sessions on Resource-Efficient and Cleaner Production (RECP) practices, environmental management, information management, financial management, procurement management, communication and knowledge management, and gender and social management. Each module was tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of project implementation, focusing on enhancing officers’ practical understanding and operational skills. Environmental management, for instance, covered strategies to ensure eco-friendly practices in project activities, while financial and procurement management modules emphasized efficient budgeting, resource allocation, and procurement processes.
The training also provided guidance on gender and social management, underlining the importance of inclusivity and gender sensitivity in project activities. Officers were also introduced to communication strategies to effectively engage with stakeholders and ensure the smooth flow of information within the project framework.
Dr. Torun Kumar Paul, Project Manager from Grameen Jano Unnayan Sangstha (GJUS), participated in the second batch of training and noted, “This training is incredibly helpful at the project’s beginning, as it will play a significant role in proper field-level implementation.” He added, “It will be easier for our team to carry out the sub-projects in the field.”
The training program reflects SMART project’s commitment to building a knowledgeable and skilled workforce for the sub-projects of the SMART project. Through this training, officials are now better prepared to navigate the challenges of project implementation, ensuring that the SMART project’s goals of sustainable and resilient development for microenterprises are achieved effectively across the project areas.
