The Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF), in collaboration with the ProGRESS Project of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office for Bangladesh, organized a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) on the Gender Equality Guidelines and Operational Manual for Employers and Businesses on 10–11 November 2026 at Warisan Residential Hotel, Rajshahi.

The training aimed to strengthen participants’ understanding of gender equality principles and equip them with the knowledge and facilitation skills to promote gender-responsive workplace policies and practices. Participants explored national and international policy commitments, key components of the Guidelines and Operational Manual, and practical tools, templates and checklists for implementation and monitoring. Interactive sessions also encouraged experience-sharing and the development of organizational action and dissemination plans.

Mr. Joha Jamilur Rahman, Head of Training, BEF, facilitated the sessions using participatory methods. Mr. Mohammad Mohebur Rahman, National Programme Officer (Monitoring and Evaluation) of the ILO ProGRESS Project, shared insights on gender-responsive employment, workplace inclusion and equal opportunities. Mr. Shakendar Ali, General Secretary of Rajshahi Babosayi Somonnoi Parishad, chaired the inaugural session. BEF also acknowledged the support of Mr. Md. Golam Zakir Hossain, Managing Director of Click to Buy Co. Ltd., Rajshahi, in organizing the event.

A total of 20 participants, including eight women and 12 men, attended the training. They represented organizations such as PRAN-RFL Group, Kishwan Group, Nabil Group, Royal Raj Hotel & Condominium and Sachetan Society, alongside employers, HR professionals, managers and entrepreneurs. The programme sought to strengthen their capacity to promote and implement gender equality initiatives across workplaces in Bangladesh.