Al-Arafah Islami Bank launches month-long entrepreneur training
Al-Arafah Islami Bank has launched a month-long training programme to promote sustainable entrepreneur development and strengthen the SME sector.
Conducted under the SCICP project at the Al-Arafah Islami Bank Training Institute (AIBTI), the initiative is supported by Bangladesh Bank's SME Special Programme Department (SMESPD) and funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The programme was inaugurated on Monday, 24 November, by Naushad Mostafa, director of SMESPD at Bangladesh Bank, who attended as chief guest. Mohd Rafat Ullah Khan, acting managing director of Al-Arafah Islami Bank, presided over the session.
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Chief guest Naushad Mostafa stressed the need for skilled, ethical and innovative entrepreneurs to drive sustainable economic growth in Bangladesh. He highlighted business opportunity identification, ethical practices, good governance and modern entrepreneurial skills, noting that strong entrepreneur development accelerates economic expansion, employment generation and inclusive growth.
In his remarks, Rafat Ullah Khan said, "Business success comes through planning, innovation, financial discipline and integrity." He urged participants to apply their learning in real-life scenarios and assured continued support from the bank through financial guidance and advisory services.
Also present were Bangladesh Bank Joint Director Md Ayub Ali; AIBTI Principal Md Abdur Rahim Duari; Senior Vice-President Touhid Siddiquee; and Centre In-Charge and Course Coordinator Saif Mohammad Zulkar Nine, along with senior officials.
Speakers underlined the importance of solid business planning, market analysis, customer relationship management, digital capabilities and Shariah-compliant financing. They noted Al-Arafah Islami Bank's longstanding involvement in CMSME training, entrepreneur development and financing.
A total of 25 new and aspiring entrepreneurs from Dhaka are participating in the programme. They will receive training on business planning, legal frameworks, financial management, digital marketing, market strategies, startup development and practical entrepreneurial skills.
