Bangladeshi expats earn least than others in abroad : Foreign Adviser

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain has said that Bangladeshi migrant workers earn comparatively lower wages than workers from other countries, mainly due to gaps in skills, education, and training.

He made the remarks during a discussion at Magura High School in Kishoreganj of Nilphamari on Sunday (December 7).

Touhid Hossain said the shortage of skilled manpower reflects systemic failures in the country’s education and training sectors. As a result, even when performing identical work abroad, Bangladeshis are paid less than workers from other nations.

"Many fail to secure better jobs due to limited language proficiency and low confidence, despite foreign workers often being recruited through direct interviews," he added.

Citing Japan as an example, he noted that learning the N4 level of Japanese—requiring about six months—can unlock significant employment opportunities. Strengthening quality education and vocational training is essential to preparing Bangladesh’s large workforce for global competitiveness, he said.

Addressing students, the adviser stressed discipline, focus on studies, and skill development, and warned them to stay away from drugs.

Senior district officials were present at the event.