Youth Are the Main Driving Force Behind National Progress: Prime Minister
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that youth are the vital energy and primary driving force behind any nation’s advancement. Their contributions to establishing an independent Bangladesh, overcoming national crises, and propelling development remain indispensable.
He made the remarks in a message issued on Saturday (October 31) ahead of National Youth Day 2026 on November 1.
The Prime Minister highlighted that young people have consistently played a pivotal role in national progress, from the independence struggle to ongoing development efforts.
He recalled that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman recognized the immense potential of youth in nation-building and took the initiative to organize them. Under his direction, the Ministry of Youth Development was established in 1978, later renamed the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
To execute youth development activities at the grassroots level, the Department of Youth Development was subsequently founded in 1981.
The Prime Minister also noted that former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia initiated youth training centers across all districts in 1991 to expand employment opportunities and foster self-reliance through technical and practical skills.
To date, the Department of Youth Development has imparted skill development training to over 8 million young men and women. Among them, nearly 2.5 million have achieved self-reliance through self-employment, with monthly earnings ranging from BDT 20,000 to BDT 100,000 or more.
He added that BDT 2,861.87 crore in youth loans has been disbursed up to June 2026 to empower emerging entrepreneurs.
Lauding the National Youth Award, he noted that 546 self-employed individuals and youth organizers have been honored so far for their national contributions, extending his congratulations to this year’s award recipients.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman emphasized that technical and technological proficiency alongside traditional education is essential for staying competitive globally, urging youth to adapt to rapid global shifts.
He highlighted that upon assuming office, the government initiated artificial intelligence (AI) training projects. These AI and freelancing initiatives enable trainees to enhance their skills and earn foreign currency online.
Underlining youth participation in environmental conservation, he mentioned that young people are actively contributing by establishing biogas plants through the IMPACT project.
He stressed expanding training programs into emerging sectors such as smart agriculture, export-oriented packaging, food processing, and foreign languages to build a modern, skilled, and competitive workforce.
The Prime Minister urged youth to dedicate themselves to national development by honing their talents, innovative capabilities, and technological expertise.
To support young innovators, the government has announced a BDT 500 crore startup fund, allocating a dedicated startup budget for the first time so promising ventures do not fail due to funding constraints.
Citing the theme for National Youth Day 2026; “Skilled Youth Will Build the Nation, a Bangladesh for Everyone”, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that youth will play an increasingly effective role in the country’s development, leadership, and future.
He concluded by wishing complete success to all programs organized for National Youth Day 2026.
