DITF offers temporary jobs to thousands
The Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) has created employment opportunities for thousands of youths as salespersons, in yet another contribution of the event to the economy.
“It is a great opportunity for the young people to gather experience and earn some money,” said Bijoy Bhattacharjee, vice-chairman of Export Promotion Bureau, the organiser of the month-long annual event that began on January 9.
The salaries and other perks are satisfactory too, he said, adding that extending employment opportunities to youths was a positive practice on the part of the corporate sector.
Although the EPB does not maintain records on the temporary jobs the DITF creates during the show, an EPB official estimated 3,800 youths were employed on a temporary basis in the fair's 550 stalls and pavilions.
A number of temporary workers say local brands prefer students who possess good communication skills to deftly deal with visitors.
One such youth is Afroza Akhter Tonni, a third-year finance undergraduate of Tejgaon College, who has been employed at Square Supermom's mini pavilion.
She says she is enjoying the job gathering experience, which would boost her CV.
Tonni will get Tk 15,000 for working six-hour shifts every day for 30 days. She will also get lunch, snacks and transportation at night.
Mazeda Akter, a second-year undergraduate student of Govt Bangla College in Mirpur, said she had taken up a temporary job at Walton Pavilion as she did not have much to do this month.
She says she will earn Tk 30,000.
“The salary is good. Besides, the experience will help me if I want to build a career in the corporate sector in future,” she added.
Parvin Begum, who recently completed her Masters degree in Bangla from National University, has taken up a temporary job at Partex Furniture. She said she would be paid Tk 20,000 at the end of the fair.
“It is a good opportunity for me -- I am gathering experience on marketing and how to deal with customers.” Parvin is one of 10 girls who have been hired for the fair, said Rubina Yesmin, senior manager for retail sales at Partex Furniture.
Yesmin said her company selected the temporary employees through an interview process. If they show themselves to be competent, Partex Furniture offers permanent positions to the temporary workers, she added.
Md Jashim Uddin, vice-chairman of Bengal Group of Industries, said his company recruited about 100 short-term employees.
He says most of the local brands appoint employees on a short-term basis and provide attractive salaries.
