Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will inaugurate the 'Youth, Startup, and Promising Bangladesh' programme tomorrow at Dhaka University (DU). The event, scheduled for 9:30 AM at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban, is organized by the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division in collaboration with DU. The initiative seeks to harness the creative and entrepreneurial potential of young people to drive national development.
Key Highlights of the Programme
The programme will feature several key components, including a documentary screening on the Bangladesh Startup Ecosystem, an experience-sharing session by successful startups titled 'Golpo Noy Shotyi' (True Stories, Not Fables), and an open-floor discussion between the Prime Minister and students on startup-related topics. Additionally, grant checks will be distributed to selected startups.
Launch of National Startup and Entrepreneurship Platform
A major highlight of the event will be the official launch of the 'National Startup and Entrepreneurship Platform'. This digital launchpad aims to provide entrepreneurs with easy access to essential information, government support programmes, application processes, training, mentoring, investment opportunities, partner organizations, and related services.
Government Commitment to Entrepreneurship
The ICT Division is implementing various integrated programmes to transform youth ideas into real-world ventures, create technology-based employment, encourage research, and build a knowledge-based economy. A Taka 500 crore Startup Fund has been established to finance and nurture innovative ventures.
Significance and Future Implications
This initiative underscores the government's commitment to integrating youth innovation into national development. By providing a unified platform and financial support, the programme aims to enhance coordination in entrepreneurship development, simplify service delivery, and build an effective national startup ecosystem. The event will remain open to all from 1:00 PM onwards following the completion of the inaugural session.
Special Guests and Speakers
Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Fakir Mahbub Anam and the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Rehan Asif Asad will grace the occasion as special guests. Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A B M Obaidul Islam will deliver the thanks, while the Acting Secretary of the ICT Division Md. Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan will give the introductory speech. Professor Dr. Md. Morshed Hasan Khan of the DU’s Department of Marketing, a member of the event management committee, will deliver the welcome address.
