Unemployment is a generational curse

FE Team | Published: January 09, 2026 19:57:34

Youth represents the most vital, energetic and creative stage of life. It is when individuals seek to establish their place in society, equipped with strength, resilience and aspirations. Economists and sociologists describe youth as the "most potential-rich stage of human capital," as this group drives national productivity and innovation. Yet, unemployment undermines this potential, eroding skills, confidence and social engagement. Long-term joblessness often leads to frustration, anxiety, and in some cases, social deviance, turning a dynamic generation into a societal burden.
In Bangladesh, youth unemployment is alarming. According to the 2023 Labour Market Survey by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), nearly 1.94 million young people aged 15-29 are unemployed, representing 78.9 per cent of the total unemployed population. Among them, 31.5 per cent hold higher education degrees. The 2025 BBS Labour Force Survey reports that unemployment among university graduates is around 13.5 per cent, while 69 per cent of unemployed youth live in rural areas.
Several structural issues contribute to this crisis. Education is largely theoretical, misaligned with labour market needs. Technical and vocational training is inadequate, and job opportunities in both public and private sectors are insufficient. The rapid population growth further widens the gap between labour supply and demand, leaving many capable young people idle.
Unemployment has serious social consequences. Prolonged joblessness increases stress, depression, and the risk of engaging in negative behaviours. Economically, idle youth slow national growth, reduce consumption, and undermine the potential "demographic dividend" that could accelerate development.
Addressing this challenge requires coordinated efforts. Youth must acquire market-relevant skills, including digital literacy, communication, and entrepreneurship. Self-employment and startups can transform unemployment into opportunity. The government should prioritise employment-oriented education, expand technical training, and promote SMEs with incentives, infrastructure and funding support. The private sector and social institutions must provide internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship to align skills with market needs.
Youth unemployment is more than an individual hardship, it is a national challenge. By combining skill development, entrepreneurship and proactive government policies, Bangladesh can transform a generation at risk into a driving force for economic and social progress. With proper planning, the energy and creativity of its youth can be harnessed to turn the curse of unemployment into a catalyst for growth.
Md. Jasim Uddin
Student, University of Rajshahi
umdjasim759@gmail.com