An adept power and energy sector is indispensable for achieving a Smart Bangladesh vision. Articulating a vision for the nation necessitates strategic planning and developing a skilled and technologically adept workforce in sufficient numbers timely. In pursuit of this objective, the government has formulated a comprehensive plan for human resource development, entrusting the Bangladesh Power Management Institute (BPMI) with its implementation.
Mohammad Alauddin, the Rector of BPMI, elaborated on these efforts in an exclusive interview with Mollah Amzad Hossain, Editor of Energy & Power.
The government is working with a vision and pledge for a digital and smart Bangladesh. Competent manpower is an essential prerequisite for that. Do you think Bangladesh now has the required competent human resources?
It is crucial to acknowledge the significance of ongoing training in the power and energy sectors. Given the ever-evolving nature of technology, continuous development of competent human resources is imperative. The Bangladesh Power Management Institute (BPMI) is committed to this cause, ensuring that trained personnel are consistently exposed to state-of-the-art technologies. Particularly noteworthy is our focus on nurturing talent for the management of nuclear power plant operations, marking a significant milestone in Bangladesh's history. Human resource development remains a perpetual endeavor at BPMI, aligning with our overarching objective.
The power supply chain comprises three distinct segments: generation, transmission, and distribution, each demanding specialized expertise. Before embarking on capacity-building initiatives, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment study. Has such a study been conducted in Bangladesh?
BPMI operates akin to capacity-building institutions worldwide. We meticulously craft our annual training calendar through extensive workshops involving stakeholders from generation, transmission, and distribution companies. Effectiveness assessments of our training programs are conducted by BPMI's research department, based on participant and trainer feedback, with findings published for transparency. Emphasizing national interests and specific needs, BPMI aligns its training programs with the Integrated Power and Energy Master Plan (IEPMP), crucial for transitioning towards clean energy. Notably, recent research by the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) underscores the imperative of adapting training programs to accommodate the energy transition.
The private sector's role in power generation in Bangladesh has been commendable. However, concerns persist regarding the adequacy of competent manpower for monitoring IPP operations. How does BPMI intend to address this challenge?
Capacity enhancement remains an ongoing endeavor at BPMI, recognizing the perpetual need to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, particularly in monitoring IPP operations. While BPMI is actively engaged in addressing this challenge, it is imperative for the private sector to prioritize indigenous talent development over-reliance on foreign expertise. Such initiatives not only foster local expertise but also conserve valuable foreign currency. BPMI stands ready to collaborate with the private sector, aligning our efforts with the government's vision for the power and energy sector.
Solar and wind power generation are burgeoning in Bangladesh, yet competency in these areas remains limited. What plans does BPMI have for enhancing skills in this domain?
BPMI has developed specific plans to address the burgeoning solar and wind power sector. The roadmap prepared in collaboration with the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA) and aligned with the IEPMP 2023 underscores our commitment to achieving a substantial contribution from clean energy sources by 2041. Emphasizing the prioritization of floating solar and solar rooftops due to land constraints, BPMI has initiated capacity development activities in collaboration with the private sector. This proactive approach ensures Bangladesh's preparedness for the evolving energy landscape.
What training programs does BPMI offer to enhance human resource capacity in the power sector, and does BPMI collaborate with foreign institutes for this purpose?
BPMI has forged partnerships with universities and institutions to enhance human resource capacity in the power sector. Noteworthy collaborations include initiatives with Central Queensland University (CQU) Australia and the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) Thailand. These collaborations extend to diverse programs, including technical training for women energy professionals, funded by the World Bank. Long-term collaborations with development partners like GIZ further reinforce BPMI's commitment to sustainable energy skill enhancement. While negotiations with foreign institutes, including those in India, remain ongoing, BPMI remains proactive in fostering international partnerships for capacity development.
Considering the interconnectedness of the power and energy sectors, do you think BPMI and BPI should merge into a single institute for comprehensive human resource development?
The decision regarding merging BPMI and BPI into a single institute lies with the government. However, BPMI recognizes the importance of close coordination between the power and energy sectors. Whether operating jointly or separately, BPMI emphasizes complementarity in training programs to ensure comprehensive human resource development across both sectors.
Senior management capacity development is pivotal for a modern and smart power sector. Does BPMI have plans in place for this?
BPMI's commitment to capacity enhancement extends across all levels of the power sector hierarchy. While there are no specific plans tailored exclusively for senior management, BPMI's comprehensive approach ensures that training initiatives cater to officials at various levels, recognizing that today's junior executives are tomorrow's leaders.
Is BPMI planning to integrate academic institutes with the power industry to train students effectively?
BPMI is finalizing plans to integrate academic institutes with the power industry, exemplified by ongoing collaborations with the Energy Institute of Dhaka University. A post-graduation course is being developed to create a knowledge-based workforce for clean energy, emphasizing the alignment of academic curricula with industry needs.
Considering the global demand for competent power sector professionals, does BPMI have plans to develop skilled manpower for the international market?
BPMI is actively developing plans, in collaboration with GIZ, to meet the global demand for skilled power sector professionals. These plans include vocational training initiatives designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills for international employment opportunities. While yet to be launched, BPMI is poised to meet the challenges of the global market with strategic foresight and proactive planning.
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