Bangladesh's economy is transforming rapidly, but its labor market is not keeping pace. As artificial intelligence reshapes the global employment landscape, this disconnect poses a significant challenge for the country's youth. Experts say creating quality jobs and building a skilled workforce capable of adapting to technological change is now a critical priority.
The remarks came at a book launch event held on Tuesday at Brac University, organized by its Department of Economics and Social Sciences. The event unveiled "The Labour Market in Bangladesh: Emerging Challenges, Future of Work and Policy Direction," written by Professor Farzana Munshi of the department and published by Routledge.
Alarming Unemployment Among the Educated
The book highlights long-standing issues in Bangladesh's labor market, including a massive workforce engaged in informal employment, low female labor force participation, and a persistent mismatch between skills and job demands. Citing International Monetary Fund (IMF) data, experts noted that 36 out of every 100 highly educated youths in the country are unemployed—a rate they described as deeply concerning.
The AI Challenge
Artificial intelligence is rapidly altering the nature of work and employment structures worldwide. In Bangladesh, the extent of AI's impact on the workplace and the challenges ahead are now subjects of growing discussion. Experts point out that many young people currently completing their education will enter professions that do not yet exist, while AI could render many traditional roles obsolete.
The Way Forward
To bridge this gap, experts argue that the education system must prioritize technology and skills development. Academic credentials alone are no longer sufficient; acquiring job-ready skills is essential.
They also stressed the need for investment in new sectors and proactive job creation. If the labor market fails to transform at the same speed as the economy, the consequences for the younger generation could be severe, they warned.
