Monir Hosen, an entrepreneur since 2008, is a visionary leader dedicated to fostering IT education, entrepreneurship, and innovation in Bangladesh. He founded Creative IT Institute, which has trained thousands, helping to reduce unemployment and promote economic growth.
Under his guidance, Creative Business Group now oversees 12 concerns, including Creative Clipping Path Limited, Bright Skills Limited, and Creative E-School, employing over 600 professionals and impacting both local and global markets.
With a BBA in Marketing, Monir is also involved in agriculture and Research & Development in IoT, software, and IT education, continuously expanding his horizons. His leadership extends to industry organisations, serving as Co-Chairman of BASIS’s Standing Committee on HR Development and Research, and as Chairman of the e-CAB edTech Committee. He is also Vice President of the Alor Pakhi Foundation, supporting children with disabilities.
Monir has received prestigious accolades such as the IDLC-Prothom Alo SME Entrepreneur Award, TOYP-2021 Award, Mohammad Yousuf Chowdhury Award, and BASIS Outsourcing Award.
Recently, in an interview with Bangladesh Brand Forum, Monir Hosen spoke about the journey of Creative IT, its skill development initiatives, achievements and Impact on youth employment and his vision and plan for the company.
BBF: When and why did Creative IT Institute start?
Monir Hosen: Creative IT Institute began in 2008 to empower Bangladesh’s youth with modern tech skills. Quality IT training options were scarce at the time, and freelancing was an untapped opportunity.
The institute aimed to bridge this gap, enabling students to access global job markets. Since its inception, it has trained over 90,000 students, many of whom have become successful freelancers. Its mission is to create a skilled workforce for a digitally-driven future.
What is the age distribution of your trainees?
Around 85% of trainees are between 18 and 30 years old, reflecting the enthusiasm of youth to build careers in tech. The rest include professionals aged 30 to 40 who seek to upgrade their skills for corporate growth.
Our institute also caters to homemakers, senior citizens, and underserved communities. This inclusivity makes it a versatile platform for lifelong learning.
Which IT training fields are currently in high demand and why?
Fields like Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Cybersecurity are in high demand due to technological advancements and the global reliance on digital infrastructure. Cloud computing is essential for scalable data management, while AI powers automation, analytics, and smarter decision-making processes. Cybersecurity is critical to protect businesses from increasing cyber threats.
Additionally, other fields like web development, graphic design, and digital marketing continue to attract learners due to their versatile application and employment opportunities. These fields not only address current industry needs but also prepare professionals for the future of IT.
How many people have trained at your institute, and what is the current enrollment?
Creative IT has trained over 90,000 students since its founding. Currently, around 12,000 new students enroll annually, and the number keeps growing. We not only provide training but also offer career placement services to ensure real-world success. Its 89% employment and freelancing success rate highlights its impact.
Which training programs allow immediate career opportunities?
Fields like graphic design and digital marketing enable students to start freelancing even during training. Skills like social media management, SEO, content creation, and video editing often lead to quick income opportunities. Web and software development courses also open up direct job placements post-training. Our career placement department ensures students connect with suitable job prospects.
Do you offer freelancing support?
Yes, Creative IT helps students build freelancing careers through guided profile creation, portfolio development, and client communication skills. Students work on real projects through the CAP (Career Advancement Program) and gain practical experience via virtual internships. Regular seminars and mentoring prepare them to thrive as professionals. 24/7 Online Support, Special care for weak students, unlimited study materials, and Caring mentors also help students achieve their goals, and lead the Freelance industry.
How does Creative IT Institute contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
Creative IT Institute plays a vital role in advancing SDGs through its programs and initiatives.
It aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) by offering affordable, high-quality IT training to empower youth with global career opportunities.
SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) is addressed by preparing a skilled workforce, reducing unemployment, and promoting freelancing. Through initiatives like scholarships for women, it supports SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and reduces gender disparity in tech.
By reaching underserved groups such as rural youth and Madrasa students, the institute addresses SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Partnerships with local and international organizations further its impact on SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Is the 14% global freelance contribution from Bangladesh satisfactory? How can it improve?
While a 14% share is commendable, there’s room for growth. Improving English communication skills and introducing cutting-edge technologies like AI and blockchain in training can help. Raising awareness about freelancing in underserved areas and forming global partnerships will also boost participation. Creative IT is committed to these improvements to enhance Bangladesh’s presence in the global freelance market.
As Founder & CEO of Creative IT Institute, What are your plans for the institute?
Creative IT is taking bold strides to shape the future of IT education by introducing advanced courses in AI, blockchain, and data science, equipping students with the skills to thrive in emerging tech trends. In a significant milestone, we recently signed MOUs with leading global organizations, including Sri Lanka’s OREL IT and Segi University in Malaysia, further strengthening our international collaborations. As part of our commitment to global expansion, we launched a branch in Canada and are actively establishing regional hubs and career centers to support both local and international students. To ensure inclusivity, we are expanding our online platform to make quality training accessible to remote learners and opening new training centers in rural areas to empower underserved communities. With these initiatives, Creative IT aims to produce globally competitive freelancers and significantly contribute to strengthening Bangladesh’s IT sector on a global stage.
In which diversified fields does Creative Business Group operate their whole business? As Chairmen of Creative business group please explain in short.
As the Chairman of Creative Business Group, I am proud to oversee a diverse range of ventures spanning IT training, e-learning, digital marketing, animation, video production, ICT solutions, and design services. Our 12 established concerns ensure smooth operations, including skill development through Creative IT Institute, offering 30+ professional courses since 2008, Bright Skills, a premier e-learning platform, and Creative Juniors, dedicated to nurturing the next generation with cognitive skills and STEM education.
Under the umbrella of Dahuk Digital, we offer digital marketing, SEO, SMM, branding solutions, animation, Video Production, and product visualization. While CCPL delivers offshore Photoshop solutions like clipping and retouching. Excellence Architecture provides innovative interior and exterior designs.
Through these ventures, we remain committed to excellence, innovation, and empowering individuals and businesses worldwide.
What advice do you have for succeeding in freelancing?
Specialize in one or two areas and master them. Build a professional portfolio that showcases your skills and attracts clients. Focus on small projects initially to gain positive reviews and build trust. Communication skills are crucial for understanding client needs and maintaining strong relationships. Dedication, consistency, and learning from feedback are keys to success.
