President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday called for expanding skills-based training, providing financial support to small entrepreneurs and creating employment opportunities for young people to harness the country's demographic dividend.
He made the call while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of National Youth Day 2026 at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka. The President said youth are the country's most valuable human resource and the key driving force behind national development, noting that political change alone is insufficient to move the nation forward.
He said the country must make the best use of its large young population to strengthen its capacity and prepare for graduation from the least developed country category. He stressed the need to make young people employment-oriented and equip them with productive skills to contribute to the national economy.
Referring to the achievements of young entrepreneurs, including women entrepreneurs, he said many are successfully expanding businesses and exporting products despite limited capital. The President suggested that aspiring entrepreneurs receive proper training and minimum financial assistance to achieve self-reliance.
He also called for expanding Department of Youth Development programs across the country, particularly its training and loan facilities. Mirza Fakhrul emphasized shifting toward a need-based education system with greater focus on vocational and technical training to satisfy domestic and international labor market demands.
Bangladesh can earn significantly more foreign currency by sending abroad skilled workers, he noted, adding that technical training institutions should be expanded. Highlighting biogas potential, he said technology can help rural families produce energy from animal waste and ease energy pressures.
Addressing social issues, the President expressed concern over growing drug addiction among youth and urged effective measures to combat it. He also called on young people to resist violence against women, dowry, and discrimination while ensuring equal opportunities for young women in education, employment, and leadership.
Concluding his address, the President urged youth never to give up and remain committed to building a self-reliant, skilled, and technology-oriented Bangladesh.
Why it matters
The President's policy directives on youth employment, vocational training, and entrepreneurship directly shape national economic development and preparations for LDC graduation.