A Japanese language and skills development centre will be established in Bangladesh through a partnership between Japanese company ONODERA User Run Co Ltd and three Bangladeshi organisations to prepare young people for employment opportunities in Japan and Bangladesh.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed in Dhaka on Thursday between ONODERA User Run, the Centre for Zakat Management (CZM), the Institute of Islamic Social Finance (IISF) and Rahimafrooz.

The centre will provide Japanese language training, professional skills development and guidance on Japanese workplace culture, with a particular focus on young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Under the agreement, ONODERA User Run will lead language training, employment preparation and instruction on workplace culture and professional conduct in Japan.

CZM will identify eligible candidates from disadvantaged communities and facilitate access to training and scholarships where applicable. IISF will provide institutional and infrastructural support, while Rahimafrooz will offer strategic support and coordinate activities among the partners.

The MoU was signed by ONODERA User Run President and CEO Jun Kato, CZM CEO Dr Mohammad Ayub Mia, IISF Vice-Chairman Arastu Khan and Rahimafrooz Group Managing Director Niaz Rahim.

Aya Yoshida, minister at the Embassy of Japan in Dhaka, attended the signing ceremony.

Kato said the initiative would help young people develop Japanese language proficiency, practical professional skills and an understanding of Japanese workplace culture, preparing them for employment and integration into the country’s workforce.

Niaz Rahim said the partnership would combine the organisations’ strengths to connect young people’s potential with international employment opportunities through relevant skills, language proficiency and responsible work practices.

Ayub Mia said quality training and credible employment opportunities could bring lasting improvements to young people and their families, particularly those facing barriers to employment.

Yoshida said Japan was interested in recruiting skilled workers from countries around the world, including Bangladesh. She stressed that Japanese language proficiency, relevant professional qualifications and an understanding of Japanese culture and workplace practices were essential for successful employment in Japan.

The proposed centre aims to bridge the gap between skills development and employment by combining Japan’s workforce development expertise with social development programmes, educational infrastructure and private-sector support.

The partners have not yet announced the centre’s location, opening date or planned trainee capacity.