Unreasonable quota is death knell for youth

After graduation most students aim to secure a good government job, move abroad for higher education to build a career, or start a business. Every country has its recruitment policy and process for government and private jobs, and Bangladesh is no exception. Currently, the number of educated unemployed in Bangladesh has turned into millions, while job opportunities remain limited. This mismatch has led to an increasing number of students migrating abroad. At the same time, hundreds of job seekers compete for a single vacant position in both government and private sectors, and this competition is intensifying.
Those who have previously migrated abroad and those who are currently doing so often cannot bring their acquired knowledge back to benefit the country. Moreover, new pension schemes and the reintroduction of the quota system may further drive young talents away, leading to shortages of scientists, doctors, and quality teachers. If the government aims to sustain the country's future with talented individuals, it must prioritise a merit-based recruitment process.
Securing a government job in Bangladesh requires immense effort and perseverance. However, the quota system crushes the dreams of millions of students. The prospect of the quota system's return is seen as a death knell for the unemployed. If 56 per cent quota is reinstated, job opportunities will be significantly reduced even for those who dedicate themselves to studying. For instance, if the government hires 100 people in a ministry, 56 of those positions will be reserved for quota beneficiaries. Additionally, some positions may be inaccessible due to issues like question leaks or lobbying. Consequently, job aspirants have little scope to succeed.
Moreover, the age limit for government jobs is thirty, but session congestion in some institutions delays entry into the job market, reducing the time available for participating in recruitment exams. This situation exacerbates the unemployment rate. However, cancelling or reforming the quota system could make it easier to secure government jobs and reduce the pressure of unemployment. This change might also dissuade many students from migrating abroad.
Globally, quota systems exist to promote equality for disadvantaged groups. Quotas can be implemented in Bangladesh as well, but within certain limits. Policies should prevent repeated use of quota benefits to avoid creating inequality rather than promoting equality.

Asif Islam
Student
Jahangirnagar University