Why Bangladesh needs student entrepreneurs

Can you just imagine being 22 years old and already running the show as a CEO of a large company? Sounds like a dream, does it? To innovators like Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook, the dream came true even while he was in college. He just happened to spend three years in a dorm room at Harvard, embarking on a quest leading to his company becoming one of the most powerful technology innovators in the world, and this is just one of the reasons why it is safe to say that the sight of students flinging their mortarboard caps into the air should not be the end or beginning of their exploration into the world of entrepreneurship.
Curiosity, courage and risk-taking are the keys to early success. The global visionaries did not sit down waiting to find an opportune time; they made it. University has been a special place for experimentation, where one tries out ideas with comparatively low risks in case of failure. It is a period when it is acceptable to learn through trial and error, as taking responsibility in the long term is not a significant burden. Entrepreneurship at this stage involves not only developing a business but also developing the courage, leadership, and problem-solving skills that cannot be taught in textbooks. Building a business is about perseverance, learning to adjust to a situation, and always believing in yourself.

Building Bangladesh's culture of tolerance and appreciation: For Bangladesh to truly embrace entrepreneurship, we need to completely change how we think about business failures and startup attempts. Right now, when a young person's business doesn't work out, families and communities often see it as embarrassment or wasted time. This attitude kills the entrepreneurial spirit before it even begins.
Bangladesh can start a culture where failure is seen as learning, not shame. When students try to build something and it doesn't succeed, we should celebrate their courage to try rather than criticise their lack of immediate success. Parents need to understand that entrepreneurial attempts are education in disguise, teaching lessons no classroom ever could. Communities should appreciate young innovators publicly, creating an environment where students feel safe to experiment without fear of judgment.
This positive attitude toward entrepreneurship will transform our nation. When young minds know they won't be ridiculed for trying, they will dare to dream bigger and solve problems that matter. Bangladesh has an immense potential waiting to be unlocked through this cultural shift.
The power of learning business early: Starting up businesses even when still in college is not only beneficial in terms of financial gains, it also instils a spirit of entrepreneurship, providing an entrepreneurial attitude that implies an approach open to innovation, resilience, and strategic thinking. These are qualities that you can never have enough of, whether you aspire to be the next tech mogul or the head of any field.
Furthermore, colleges and universities have developed a dense network of services: mentors, incubators, networking groups, and investments. The students will be able to utilise these resources to turn an idea into a successful business and receive a competitive advantage in the job market or build a career for their whole life.
With the advent of AI assistance, anyone can now develop apps and technology solutions. Today's students can use AI tools to create mobile applications without needing years of coding experience. They can build sophisticated websites, develop business plans, and automate processes from day one. This technological revolution means that brilliant ideas are no longer held back by technical knowledge or large amounts of money. A student with creativity and determination can now build technology solutions that compete anywhere in the world.
Most popular start-up areas: The world of startups is filled with exciting possibilities for young entrepreneurs. The most popular fields today are those that shape the future, and they are now open to young individuals who are willing to make a difference.
Tech and app development reaches students who are creating apps and digital services that help address real-life problems, even with very few resources. The virtual world, whether it be social networking or productivity, is an innovation playground.
E-commerce and online retail has been simplified by platforms like Shopify and social commerce, making it easier than ever to start an online store. Young entrepreneurs sell personalised clothes and art, green items and specialised devices.
EdTech focuses on education technology, where students develop applications, tutoring platforms, and tools that can transform the world of education based on their desire to make learning more engaging and inclusive.
Sustainable businesses attract our young generation who are passionate about eco-friendly products and services. Green startups working on environmentally friendly products, recycling innovations, and clean energy are becoming a major trend.
Content creation is another popular area that builds brands and businesses through storytelling, teaching and entertaining via blogs, YouTube, social media and podcasts.
The next generation inspiration: There are no accidents in relation to becoming successful young entrepreneurs who were on a mission to be the best. Whether it is the social network revolution or the enterprising businesspersons who are remodelling their environments by being aggressive and pursuing their respective businesses, the message remains the same: begin young, be a game changer, and never stop.
To those students on the fence, contemplating whether to take the leap, know this: the entrepreneurial path is a thrilling journey filled with learning, growth, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Thus, wanting to be a CEO at the age of 22 is not just about the title, but also about owning your future, and serving as a role model who inspires people to shape their lives.
Senior industry leaders should step forward to encourage and mentor young entrepreneurs, sharing their experience and providing real opportunities for students to learn. Teachers should inspire students to start socially impactful and profitable and sustainable projects that solve real problems while creating economic value. Turning ordinary people into remarkable humans through the power of entrepreneurship should begin in one's student life.
Samiha Mamun is an undergraduate student at the Army Institute of Business Administration (Army IBA), affiliated with the Bangladesh University of Professionals in Savar, Dhaka.
samihamamunmeem@gmail.com