Understanding the Impact of Skills Training on the Livelihoods of Adolescents and Youths of Cox’s Bazar Host Community

This baseline study evaluates a multi-sectoral project jointly implemented by Save the Children International (SCI), UCEP Bangladesh, YPSA, and Jagorani Chakra Foundation (JCF), funded by the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (BPRM). The initiative aims to strengthen the protection, well-being, and socio-economic development of adolescents and youth aged 16 to 24 in the Rohingya and host communities of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. With a specific focus on education, child protection, and skills development, the project facilitates youth integration into the workforce through targeted interventions delivered via Community-Based and Hosted-Based Learning Facilities.

The study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative and qualitative data collection across two Upazilas—Ukhiya and Teknaf. The quantitative component surveyed 663 youth from 57 villages (29 intervention, 28 control), using simple random sampling based on socio-economic vulnerability. The qualitative component included eight FGDs and seven KIIs with youth, trainers, NGO staff, and local authorities to contextualize findings.

Key findings reveal a significant skills gap and low employment rate (10%), with the control group showing relatively higher financial stability. While both groups shared aspirations for financial security and higher education, the intervention group demonstrated greater confidence in career planning, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship interest (44% vs. 30%). However, major barriers persist, including limited local employment opportunities, lack of practical experience, and insufficient technical training. Financial inclusion is notably higher in the intervention group, with a greater tendency to save and use mobile financial services.

Recommendations include enhancing career guidance and entrepreneurship education, expanding financial literacy initiatives, aligning training with local labor demands, and promoting saving habits. The study offers a baseline to monitor project progress and guides future interventions to enhance youth economic empowerment in humanitarian settings.