Young and ready

Bangladesh is a very young nation, demographically speaking. With a median age of about 26, Bangladesh is teeming with a youth population ready and eager to make a difference in important matters of public life. Indeed, our government and political process should reflect the composition of the country, with youth voices being heard on the national level. Regrettably though, at present, not enough young people are represented in the world of politics or policy-making, which is why it is good to see that a recommendation has been made at the 63rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference for youth quotas in parliament. A recent survey conducted by Bangla Tribune found that the youth of Bangladesh were optimistic about their future. This energy and optimism of the youth is what the future rests on, and without it, we would have nothing to stand on. The undeniable truth is that the world is changing, becoming more and more digital, more and more global, and more and more competitive. It is a world that demands innovation, fresh ideas, and new ways of thinking. Without these things, Bangladesh will fall behind, and that is why it is time to embrace the ideas of the youth and give them a real platform on the national stage. Most young people are active on the internet and on social media, so this is the group closest to making Digital Bangladesh a reality. Young entrepreneurs and innovators from Bangladesh have already made us proud all over the world -- now it is time to help them make their mark in politics as well.