Voices of Bangladeshi Youth: Preparing for the World of Work

“Will I find a good job after I graduate?” Like so many young people, this is the biggest concern for Nayeema Nusrat Aurora, a final-year undergraduate at the University of Dhaka, whom I met during my visit to Bangladesh last year.

However, for Nayeema and other students I met, this question is not just rooted in natural apprehension about what’s next after university. It reflects their growing awareness of the challenges many graduates face in finding suitable employment opportunities. With more than 650,000 higher education graduates entering the job market every year, a 2019 World Bank study reveals that less than half secure employment within one or two years of graduation. 

Educational institutions are struggling to adapt to the evolving nature of work in the local and global markets and address the mismatch between graduates’ skills and industry’s needs.

The labor market for Bangladeshi youth presents a growing challenge amidst demographic pressures and a need for creating more and better jobs. While informal sector creates significant jobs, the country faces slow formal job growth, and challenges meeting the increasing demand for better job opportunities for graduates. At the same time, educational institutions are struggling to adapt to the evolving nature of work in the local and global markets and address the mismatch between graduates’ skills and industry’s needs.
 

During my discussion with Nayeema and other university students, I heard about their job aspirations and apprehensions. They posed important questions, sought out insights and shared their perspectives about graduate employability. I came away understanding the urgency to foster a smoother transition from graduation to employment.

Collaboration on upgrading the curriculum, research and development, and on-the-job training can help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and ever-changing industry needs in Bangladesh.

The students came up with lots of ideas. Everyone felt that stronger collaboration between industry and academia is critical to ensure that graduates are entering the workforce with the right skills. They suggested that collaboration on upgrading the curriculum, research and development, and on-the-job training can help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and ever-changing industry needs in Bangladesh . I was told that some firms, such as Grameenphone Academy, Futurenation, or youth organizations like BYLCx, are already leading the way with open digital training platforms to skill and upskill youth to meet employer qualifications. 

The students wanted to mandate universities to offer career counseling and facilitate alumni outreach as well as work with the private sector to assist with internships and ensure participation in job fairs. 

“I believe training programs and internships need to be available outside Dhaka to make sure that young people across the country, not just in the capital city, have access to these opportunities,” emphasized Mohsiullah Ammar, a final-year student from the University of Dhaka. 

Farzana Fahim, a third-year student from Bangladesh University of Professionals, also noted “Stronger connections between the private sector and universities can encourage graduates who have studied overseas to return and contribute to Bangladesh’s growing economy.” 

Lastly, we discussed how employers value skills beyond just technical skills. Critical thinking, problem-solving, business communication and teamwork are essential attributes to succeed in the workplace. Employers too value leadership skills and the ability to take initiative beyond job requirements. 

I firmly believe learning is a lifelong journey that comes not only from formal education but also by embracing new skills and being adaptable—key attributes that can help young people remain competitive in an ever-changing job market. The students I met were clearly passionate about having meaningful careers and contributing to the country’s development. This emphasized the urgency of ensuring that all graduates acquire the right skills and experience at university so that they can transition to the job market quickly and successfully.

In this pivotal time, let’s continue to empower Bangladeshi youth, equip them with the necessary skills, and pave the way for a brighter future filled with promising career opportunities.