There is no denying that vocational education remains one of the most important avenues for development, not only for a country such as Bangladesh, but everywhere in the world.
And it is encouraging to see the government take note of this, as the PM confirmed the decision to emphasize on vocational training in the future, all in an effort to generate a more skilled workforce.
This is undoubtedly a necessary step on the path to sustainable development: With around 2 million young people entering the job market every year, imbuing the coming generations with the right skills will allow them to contribute to the economy, become successful as individuals, and provide for their families.
A more skilled workforce would also ensure better completion of the Sustainable Development Goals set by the UN -- which Bangladesh, as a nation emerging on the world stage as a burgeoning economy as well as a leader in the fight against climate change, has been focusing on with a good amount of success.
One of the problems vocational training faces is the lack of respect afforded to it in our society. Such a condescending, and ultimately irrational, mindset must be addressed by the government to ensure better treatment of workers as well as better pay.
After all, we need plumbers, carpenters, and nurses as much as we need lawyers, doctors, and engineers.
We are glad that the authorities are prioritizing these skills through emphasis on vocational training in various educational institutions. Making this a success could very well be the factor that further catapults the growth of our economy in the future.