NSDA Moves to Train Skilled Scaffolders

Dhaka, August 11, 2026: Scaffolding is essential across Bangladesh’s construction sector, from building projects to major infrastructure developments. As demand for skilled scaffolders continues to rise both domestically and in Middle Eastern labour markets, the National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) has taken an initiative to develop a standardized training curriculum for the occupation.

As part of the initiative, a validation workshop on the Competency Standard (CS) and Course Accreditation Document (CAD) for the ‘Scaffolding’ occupation under the construction sector was held on Tuesday.

The workshop was organized at the NSDA conference room in Agargaon, Dhaka, with participation from industry representatives, relevant government and private organizations, academia, experts and NSDA officials.

The workshop was chaired by Dr. Nazneen Kawsar Chowdhury, Executive Chairman of NSDA and Secretary to the Government of Bangladesh.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Nazneen Kawsar Chowdhury said many workers currently engaged in scaffolding in Bangladesh acquire their skills through conventional methods or practical experience. However, opportunities for formal training and skills assessment based on defined standards remain limited.

She said the introduction of new competency standards and a structured training framework would help address this gap.

She also emphasized making skills development programmes more employment-oriented by considering the requirements of international labour markets. Developing competency standards and a training curriculum for the scaffolding occupation is part of that initiative, she added.

The NSDA Executive Chairman further said the initiative has significant potential not only for Bangladesh’s construction sector but also for overseas employment, particularly in the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait, among other Middle Eastern countries, have substantial demand for scaffolders in infrastructure and construction projects. According to her, internationally trained Bangladeshi workers could gain access to new employment opportunities in these markets.

Scaffolding refers to temporary structures used at construction sites to enable workers to safely access, move around and work at elevated locations. A lack of proper skills in installing or using scaffolding can increase the risk of workplace accidents. Therefore, developing trained workers and ensuring safe work practices are both essential for the occupation.

The workshop discussed various aspects of the proposed competency standard and training course. Stakeholders provided input based on practical industry requirements, technical competencies, workplace safety, equipment use and job responsibilities.

The CS and CAD were finalized after incorporating recommendations from the participating stakeholders.

The initiative will pave the way for developing a formal training curriculum and introducing scaffolding courses at NSDA-registered training institutions.

The move is expected to expand institutional training opportunities in the scaffolding profession and facilitate the development of a larger pool of skilled workers for both domestic and international labour markets.
//DigiBanglaTech/NPB/SME//