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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Passion isn't the problem, policy is

June 17, 2025 00:00:00


As a university student eager to start something of my own, I've realised that building a business in Bangladesh takes more than a good idea-it takes navigating a system that often works against you.

Today, many young people aren't just job seekers; they want to be job creators. From online shops to digital services, we're trying to build something real. But we're stuck before we even begin. Registration costs are high, the process is confusing, and if you don't have money or connections, it's hard to even be taken seriously.

Access to funding is another major barrier. Traditional bank loans often require collateral, guarantors, or a long credit history-things most students or first-time entrepreneurs simply don't have. This is where microloans could play a transformative role. If financial institutions or government-backed programmes offered small, low-interest loans designed specifically for youth-led startups-with simplified application processes and mentorship support-it could empower thousands of young people. Even loans of BDT 50,000 to 2,00,000 could be life-changing for a student running an online business or a rural youth offering digital services. These aren't handouts; they're investments in Bangladesh's future economy.

I know friends who had great ideas but gave up because they couldn't get a small loan or didn't understand where to start. Our schools still teach us how to write CVs, not business plans. Entrepreneurship isn't just a buzzword anymore-it's a survival skill in today's economy.

If we want Bangladesh to thrive, we need more than encouragement-we need real policy change. Make it easier and cheaper to register a business. Offer microloans to students and youth with potential. Teach us how to build companies, not just get jobs.

Young entrepreneurs are ready. We just need the system to stop holding us back.

Sumaiya Jahan Roshni

Student, Bachelor of Business Administration

North South University

sumaiya.roshni@northsouth.edu


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