Author: Nure A. Khan, CEO, CHARM
Introduction:
Bangladesh is a densely populated country where human resources are more abundant than natural resources. The greatest strength of this nation lies in its people. If this vast population can be transformed into skilled and productive human resources, economic development will accelerate. Particularly, by expanding export-oriented industries and creating employment opportunities for millions, poverty alleviation, crime reduction, and overall development can be achieved. In this article, we will discuss the importance of human resources, ways to create employment, the development of the industrial sector, and the role of the government in detail.
Importance of Human Resources:
The key strength of a country’s development is its population. If the workforce is utilized properly, the nation can reach the peak of progress. Looking at developed countries, we see that in addition to technological advancements, they have maximized the use of human resources.
For a developing country like Bangladesh, where there is a scarcity of natural resources, human resources are the primary strength. Without skilled human resources, a country cannot fully utilize its potential. Therefore, our main objective should be to transform this vast population into a skilled workforce and ensure suitable employment opportunities for them.
Significance of Export-Oriented Industries:
To survive in the global economic competition, Bangladesh must increase investment in export-oriented industries. Currently, the country has significant potential in the ready-made garments, textile, information technology, pharmaceuticals, leather, and agro-based industries. These sectors offer extensive employment opportunities.
1) Ready-Made Garments and Textile Industry:
The backbone of Bangladesh’s economy is the ready-made garment industry. Currently, around 4 million workers are employed in this sector, making it one of the primary sources of foreign exchange earnings. If this sector is further expanded and modernized, employment opportunities will increase significantly.
2) Information Technology and Freelancing:
In today’s world, the importance of information technology is immense. Bangladesh has already gained recognition in the freelancing sector. As the global demand for technology-based work continues to rise, developing a skilled workforce in this sector can propel the country forward.
3) Pharmaceuticals and Leather Industry:
Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical industry has already earned a good reputation in the global market. If the government increases investment in this sector and establishes modern research centers, it could play a significant role in the economy. Similarly, the leather industry can be strengthened through modern technology and quality processing.
4) Agriculture and Agro-Based Industries:
Although Bangladesh is an agricultural country, people involved in this sector still lack adequate opportunities and facilities. Exporting agricultural products can create new employment opportunities.
Ways to Ensure Employment for 50 Million People:
If the government takes strategic initiatives to develop industries and create a skilled workforce, it is possible to generate employment for 50 million people in the coming years. Some effective steps include:
1. Increasing the Number of Industrial Factories – Establishing new industrial zones and providing easy loan facilities to small and medium entrepreneurs can boost employment.
2. Technical Education and Training – Training programs should be designed based on labor market demands to enhance workforce skills.
3. Development of New Sectors – Besides the garment industry, employment opportunities must be created in IT, pharmaceuticals, leather, and agro-based industries.
4. Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Startups – Young entrepreneurs should be supported through easy loans, government assistance in starting businesses, and access to new markets.
5. Eliminating Bureaucratic Hurdles – The government must adopt business-friendly policies to encourage investors in launching new ventures.
Reducing Crime and Social Issues:
Unemployment is a major social problem. Due to a lack of job opportunities, many unemployed youth become involved in criminal activities. Increasing employment will naturally reduce crime rates.
• Skill Development through Education and Training – Many job seekers fail to secure employment due to a lack of necessary skills. Therefore, skill development programs must be expanded.
• Anti-Drug and Crime Prevention Initiatives – With more job opportunities, young people will be less likely to engage in drug abuse, robbery, or terrorism.
• Engaging Women in the Workforce – Creating suitable employment opportunities for women will strengthen families and society as a whole.
• Increasing Incentives for Entrepreneurs – To reduce unemployment, new entrepreneurs must be encouraged through financial and policy support.
Role of the Government:
If the government takes effective steps to develop human resources quickly, Bangladesh will progress significantly. The key responsibilities of the government include:
1. Special Initiatives for Industrial and Commercial Growth – The government must support the establishment of new industries and facilitate private sector development.
2. Investment in Human Resource Development – Skilled human resources must be built through education and training programs.
3. Increasing Overseas Employment Opportunities – Sending more skilled workers abroad can boost the flow of remittances.
4. Administrative Reforms and Policy Support – Long-term, business-friendly policies must be implemented to encourage industrial and commercial development.
Conclusion:
Bangladesh’s greatest asset is its human resources. If utilized effectively, the nation’s economy will thrive. Expanding industries and increasing employment opportunities will reduce crime, eliminate poverty, and accelerate overall development. Along with the government, private sectors, entrepreneurs, and educational institutions must work together. Only through a combined effort can we establish ourselves as a prosperous, self-sufficient nation on the global stage.
Author: Nure A. Khan, CEO, CHARM
