23 sex workers start life anew in Khulna

Christian Service Society (CSS), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), has provided 23 sex workers with jobs to encourage them to return to normal life.
The NGO has brought the sex workers under an eight-month training on matters relating to technical education and gave them certificates on completion of the training at a rehabilitation centre at Sonadanga in the city.
Mark Munshi, chief executive of CSS, told this correspondent last week that about eight months ago he invited sex workers at different brothels in Khulna city and district to join the programme if they want to discard the hateful profession. Twenty-three sex workers from different brothels quickly responded to the move, Munshi added.
These women, who have started a new life, have been provided with jobs and given Tk 1,30,000 each for purchasing land and construction of their houses, the CSS chief executive said.
He further said the women won't be able to withdraw any amount from Tk 1,30,000 before one year as it has been deposited in fixed accounts opened in a bank against their names.
KCC Mayor Talukder Abdul Khaleq said CSS has set a unique example of how the sex workers can be brought to normal life.
“I hope CSS will continue to bring about a radical change in the life of the unfortunate women in the future,” the mayor said while giving his reaction to reporters after distributing certificates among the 23 women.