The Department of Social Services and Keraniganj Upazila Social Service Officer, conducted an official visit to Keraniganj to assess the situation of child labour in the local Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry. The visit was facilitated by Bangladesh Labour Foundation (BLF) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination and response mechanisms.
Understanding Challenges, Strengthening Response
The programme began at the BLF Project Office, where the team was welcomed and briefed on the current situation of child labour in Keraniganj. The discussion highlighted field-level data, ongoing interventions, and the key challenges in keeping children from work while ensuring their access to education and protection. There was a discussion with an emphasis on workable ways to end child labor. It was underlined that it is still challenging to remove child workers from the workforce sustainably in the absence of an effective and organized government rehabilitation program. The conversation with children exposed the reality that underlies their work: limited options, lack of educational opportunities, and financial strain on families. Factory management was also engaged to better understand recruitment practices and workplace conditions.
Key Discussions
- Addressing child labour requires collective and coordinated action, not isolated efforts.
- Progress has been made in withdrawing children and raising awareness.
- Long-term change depends on strong and sustainable rehabilitation systems.
- Continued commitment from all stakeholders is essential for lasting impact.