Re-evaluating obsession with graduation

Recently, we saw protests in Dhaka by frustrated graduates who couldn't secure employment after graduation and rising tuition rates. It underscores an unappealing truth: our focus on four-year university degrees is leaving much too many young adults without employment while crucial industry sectors are facing shortage of skilled workers.

Bangladesh produces over a million graduates annually, yet many end up in low-paying, unrelated jobs. Germany and Vietnam have proven the might of vocational training, combining school theoretical training with work apprenticeships in response to labor market demands. Bangladesh must do the same.

Universities are still crucial for churning out doctors, engineers, and innovators. But vocational training needs to be regarded as an equally valued, adequately funded route to prosperity. Upgrading training facilities, synchronising study programmes with industry demands, and glorifying skilled trades as honourable, lucrative careers is needed.

Our young people deserve better than dead-end degrees. Diversifying education will translate frustration into possibilities-and build the workforce to power Bangladesh's next growth chapter.

Safiqul Haque Eifty

Department of International Business and Marketing

North South University

eiftyhaque@gmail.com