Unlocking demographic dividend

Bangladesh is at a crossroads in its history of development. Being a country in which more than half its population consists of individuals under the age of 35, Bangladesh has been handed a demographic dividend that, if harnessed appropriately, has the ability to redefine its economic fortune. The dividend, however, comes on no obligation and is conditional. The youth bulge becomes a burden without meaningful jobs, skills development, and business facilitation.

Right now, the jobs market is severely stressed. Each year, nearly two million young people enter the labour force, yet they are unable to find a proper job for their skills. Automation and constricted intake within traditional industries has poignantly exacerbated the dilemma. On the other hand, the digital economy of the new age, e-commerce, freelancing, and start-up ecosystem hold a bright new horizon of possibility.

Entrepreneurship is becoming a viable answer. From rural agro-enterprises to Dhaka tech start-ups, Bangladeshis are being optimistic and resourceful. Deep-seated barriers-low access to finance, lack of proper business incubation, and weak ties between industry and academia-however continue to restrain. For genuine empowerment of youth, policy-makers need to focus on vocational training, IT skills, and small business facilitation.

The future of Bangladesh rests on how well Bangladesh prepares its youth for today. By building an empowering ecosystem for both jobs and entrepreneurship, the country would not only be generating jobs, but would be propelling inclusive and sustainable development. The talent, innovation, and dreams of young Bangladeshis are evident already-just a proper stage for them to be seen on.

Md. Kamrul Ahsan Shamim

School of Business and Economics

Major in Marketing

North South University