Experts at a discussion marking World Youth Skill Day (WYSD) 2025 stressed the urgent need to equip Bangladeshi youths with the skills and protections necessary to navigate the growing challenges and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence and the digital gig economy.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) brings both opportunities and challenges for youths in Bangladesh and policymakers must come forward to make best use of demographic dividend, said speakers in the discussion.
Youth Media Forum and Jobletics jointly organized an insightful discussion on the theme of WYSD, entitled “Youth Empowerment through AI and Digital Skills” on Saturday.
Journalists from different media outlets shared different challenges faced by youths involved with the gig economy.
“Due to its flexible nature, the gig economy is increasingly attracting young, educated individuals seeking employment opportunities. However, in a country where unemployment remains a significant issue, these young gig workers are at risk of exploitation due to the absence of legal protections,” said Rashad Ahamad, a senior journalist and a Chevening Fellow.
“To ensure the fair growth of the sector and its ability to meet both local and international demands, the government must address the prevailing challenges”, Rashad added.
He also shared an experience of a recent visit in the UK as part of Chevening Fellowship with fellow journalists.
Referring to the research “Working Situation of Women Home-based Industrial Workers in Bangladesh: Issues and Way Forward” by Creative Pathways Bangladesh, Zakia Haque, managing director of Jobletic, said: “These women work from home under different buyers and are grateful for even a small income—especially after losing garment jobs. But they lack legal protection and awareness of their true market value. This informal work must be formalized to ensure their rights and fair earnings.”
“Countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and India are progressing fast in the digital gig economy,” said Obaidur Rahman, business development adviser of Jobletic.
“Bangladesh must also recognize this growing sector where many youth are involved. We need clear policies, tax guidelines, and a regulatory framework to integrate it into the national economy.”
Another speaker said: “Bangladesh is ready for digital and AI-based work, but we urgently need clear policy guidelines, and it is up to us as media professionals to push for wider space for youths.”
He emphasized developing an ecosystem where jobless youths could take advantage of the enormous potential of the gig economy, and the government facilitates that by providing them with all necessary policy supports.
The discussion ended with a question-and-answer session.