Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are rapidly transforming industries worldwide, from manufacturing and healthcare to finance and logistics. While developed nations are investing heavily in reskilling and upskilling their workforce, Bangladesh has yet to fully confront the looming impact of this technological revolution. The window to act is narrow, and the consequences of inaction could be severe.
So, the threat is ominous: millions of low-skilled jobs in garments, customer service, transport, and other sectors may soon be replaced by machines and algorithms. Without preparation, the country's young workforce - currently one of our greatest assets - could quickly become a liability, facing unemployment and underemployment on an unprecedented scale.
Rather than fearing automation, Bangladesh must proactively prepare for it. Universities and vocational training institutes should introduce comprehensive courses in AI, data analytics, robotics, coding, and digital problem-solving. Simultaneously, partnerships between the government and private sector can establish skill-development hubs and innovation centres to equip young people with the expertise to adapt to a rapidly evolving job market.
Beyond preparing workers, Bangladesh has the potential to become not merely a consumer of AI technologies but a producer, developing affordable AI-driven solutions for local and regional markets. Foresight, investment, and coordinated policy planning today will determine whether the country can claim a position in the global knowledge economy of tomorrow.
The stakes could not be higher. If we ignore this challenge, automation may leave millions unemployed and underprepared for the future. If we act decisively, Bangladesh can ride out the AI wave, transforming its workforce into a resilient, skilled and innovative generation capable of competing on a global scale. The choice is ours, and the time to act is now.
Fatematuj Johora Momota, Student, Bachelor of business administration, North South University, Dhaka
Fatematuj.amomota@northsouth.edu
