Dhaka: Prominent economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya has issued a warning that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and robotics could result in the loss of up to 5.6 million jobs in Bangladesh. This revelation has spurred urgent discussions regarding the nation’s preparedness for the evolving labor market.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Dr. Debapriya made these remarks during a dialogue titled ‘Government Priorities and the Education Sector: Budget and Reality,’ organized by Citizen’s Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon. He emphasized that the implications of AI extend beyond mere job losses, questioning whether Bangladesh is adequately equipped to compete for the technology-driven jobs that may emerge.
Dr. Debapriya highlighted a significant skills and training gap among the young workforce in Bangladesh. He warned that this deficit could prevent them from accessing new employment opportunities in the digital economy, despite the potential creation of new jobs.
Addressing education policy, Dr. Debapriya argued for a shift in national priorities towards ensuring quality education and measurable outcomes. He stressed the importance of transforming the education agenda into a political and social movement, noting ongoing discussions about a collaborative initiative with newly elected parliament members.
He also critiqued the government’s stipend program, suggesting that financial assistance alone is insufficient to alleviate the educational cost burdens faced by marginalized families. Dr. Debapriya stated that the focus must move from universal enrollment towards ensuring learning outcomes.
He concluded by asserting that substantial educational reform requires both political and social engagement, beyond technical solutions, to maintain Bangladesh’s development progress. The event was attended by State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj, with CPD Additional Director (Research) Towfiqul Islam Khan presenting the keynote paper.