MM Rahmatullah: Bangladesh and Italy have stepped up efforts to promote safe, regular and skills-based labour migration through a new pre-departure training initiative aimed at preparing Bangladeshi workers for employment and integration into Italian society.The initiative, titled “Language, Civic and Professional Training for Skilled Migration to Italy,” was presented at a programme held at Dhaka Regency Hotel in the capital on Tuesday (November 3).Dr Mahdi Amin, Adviser to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh with the rank of State Minister, attended the programme as the chief guest.Antonio Alessandro, the Ambassador of Italy to Bangladesh delivered the welcome address, highlighting the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation in labour migration, skills development and human resource mobility.Among the speakers were Dr Laura Nicole Tomm-Bonde, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Bangladesh; Gunjam Dallakoti, Head of Programme of the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Bangladesh; and Dr ASM Fazlur Rahman, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment.The programme focused on pre-departure training projects for Bangladeshi workers seeking employment in Italy under Article 23 of the Italian Migration Law. The projects aim to equip prospective migrants with Italian language skills, civic knowledge and professional competencies before their departure.Speakers highlighted the outcomes of the first initiatives of this kind in Bangladesh, stressing that proper preparation would help workers adjust to their workplaces, understand local laws and integrate into Italian society.They particularly emphasised Italian language proficiency as an essential requirement for effective communication, improved workplace performance and social integration.The programme also discussed legal procedures and requirements for migration to Italy. A migration specialist responded to participants' queries about lawful migration channels, relevant regulations and official procedures.Representatives of Italian and Bangladeshi private-sector organisations involved in the training projects also attended the event. Prospective migrant workers undergoing training, particularly for jobs in the hospitality and textile sectors, were present.Their participation highlighted how language education and occupation-specific training could help Bangladeshi workers meet the requirements of the Italian labour market.The initiative reflects broader efforts by the two countries to make labour migration more organised, transparent and skills-oriented by aligning training in Bangladesh with the actual needs of overseas employers.For Bangladesh, such an approach could help workers secure better employment, protect their rights and reduce the risks of exploitation while contributing to Italy's economy.As Dhaka and Rome seek to deepen bilateral cooperation, the initiative could emerge as an important model for expanding skilled employment opportunities and promoting mutually beneficial labour migration.