The government has set a target of creating 200,000 technology-based jobs annually and generating another 800,000 indirect employment opportunities through freelancing and creative industry training programs, placing youth employment at the center of the proposed FY2026–27 budget.
Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced the plans while presenting the proposed Tk9.38 lakh crore national budget for fiscal year 2026–27 in parliament yesterday.
The finance minister said the government's primary objective is to generate large-scale employment across various sectors under the slogan “We Will Work, We Will Build the Nation.” To achieve this goal, initiatives have been undertaken to modernize different sectors of the economy, promote region-based development, and attract domestic and foreign investment to create new job opportunities for young people.
He said the global job market is undergoing significant changes due to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and increasing automation. To address these challenges, the government has begun implementing time-bound plans to develop a skilled, technology-oriented workforce. As part of this strategy, a target has been set to create 200,000 new jobs annually in the technology sector.
The finance minister also announced extensive training programs in freelancing and the creative industry at colleges and universities, which are expected to generate about 800,000 indirect employment opportunities.
To bring unemployed youth into the workforce, the government plans to establish Employment Exchanges at district and upazila levels. Registered job seekers will be matched with employment opportunities based on their qualifications and skills, while those lacking the necessary skills will be referred to training centers to improve their employability.
He said the Ministry of Youth and Sports is already providing training in areas such as freelancing, mobile servicing, caregiving, and language education. These initiatives are expected to help young people acquire skills needed for employment both at home and abroad.
According to the finance minister, the government's development plans extend beyond urban areas and include rural communities. Special employment programs have been designed for illiterate individuals, homemakers, senior citizens, and people who have remained unemployed for extended periods.
Under these initiatives, participants will receive training in poultry farming, livestock rearing, cottage industries, small business management, and digital skills development.
The finance minister said Bangladesh's demographic dividend is expected to continue until 2040. To fully utilize this opportunity, the government will strengthen quality education, market-oriented skills development, and vocational training programs for young people.
He expressed optimism that developing a skilled workforce aligned with the demands of a technology-driven economy and creating widespread employment opportunities would further accelerate the country's economic growth.
