Once, young people dreamt of becoming doctors, engineers or artists. Today, many dream of becoming millionaires overnight. The boy who once tutored or worked a small job to stand on his own feet is now lost in the illusions of gambling. What seems like a shortcut to wealth is, in reality, a dark tunnel leading to ruin.
This trend is spreading rapidly across Bangladesh, especially among unemployed youth. With mobile phones, internet access, and easy-to-use gambling apps, temptation is always at their fingertips. Gambling now occurs openly-in buses, tea stalls, even classrooms-on cricket, football, and online games. What begins as curiosity or boredom quickly becomes a dangerous addiction. The thrill of winning triggers dopamine, creating a vicious cycle that leads to repeated losses, debt and psychological breakdown.
The consequences are devastating. Families lose savings, jewelry, and financial stability. Young people, once cheerful and hopeful, become stressed, dishonest, and desperate, sometimes turning to theft or even suicide. At the national level, gambling drains the youth-the backbone of the country-hampering productivity, encouraging crime, and slowing progress.
Laws alone cannot solve this crisis. We need awareness campaigns, rehabilitation centres, psychological support, and above all, opportunities for meaningful engagement. Families, schools, and the media must guide youth towards real dreams-built on hard work, talent, and integrity rather than luck. By creating jobs, developing skills, and fostering positive activities, we can fill the void that drives young people to gamble.
If urgent action is not taken, the nation risks losing
its most valuable asset: its young generation.
Protecting them today ensures a brighter, sustainable future for all.
Ibrahim Khalil Shobuj
ug2108037@lla.pstu.ac.bd
