Dhaka:Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has emphasized the pivotal role of youth in the progress of Bangladesh, highlighting their significant contributions to the nation's independence, crisis management, and development. He made these remarks in a message issued in celebration of National Youth Day 2026, which will be observed on November 1.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister recalled the efforts of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in organizing the youth for nation-building, leading to the establishment of the Ministry of Youth Development in 1978, which later became the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Additionally, the Department of Youth Development was created in 1981 to implement youth programs at the grassroots level. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the initiatives of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, who established youth training centers across all districts in 1991 to enhance employment opportunities and provide technical training.
The Prime Minister noted that over 80 lakh young individuals have received skill development training through the Department of Youth Development, with around 25 lakh becoming self-employed. To further support youth entrepreneurs, loans totaling Taka 2,861 crore and 87 lakh have been distributed up to June 2026. Rahman also praised the National Youth Award, which has honored 546 self-employed youth and organizers for their contributions to nation-building.
In his address, Rahman stressed the importance of acquiring technical and technological skills in addition to conventional education to stay competitive globally. The government has initiated a training project on Artificial Intelligence, allowing trainees to gain skills and earn foreign currency through freelancing and AI projects. The IMPACT project was also mentioned, encouraging youth involvement in environmental conservation through biogas plant establishment.
The Prime Minister called for more training programs in smart agriculture, export-oriented packaging, food processing, and other emerging sectors to create a skilled workforce. He also announced a Taka 500 crore startup fund to support innovative projects by young people, marking the first allocation of a startup budget in the country's history.
With the theme 'Skilled Youth Will Build the Nation, Bangladesh for All,' the Prime Minister expressed optimism that the youth will play a vital role in national development and leadership. He extended his best wishes for the success of the National Youth Day 2026 celebrations.