Global Bangladeshi Alliance Unveils Strategic Roadmap in Dhaka
The Global Bangladeshi Alliance (GBA), a platform spearheaded by the diaspora, convened its inaugural policy dialogue in Dhaka on Monday.
The assembly revealed an economy-centric roadmap aimed at integrating Bangladesh into the global digital commerce landscape, while adequately preparing its workforce to navigate the exigencies posed by rapid automation.
During the event, leaders from GBA delivered a compelling joint presentation, cautioning that without prompt reforms to its cross-border e-commerce and skills enhancement policies, Bangladesh risks becoming a “digital island.”
At the core of their propositions was the “Amazon Economy” blueprint—an export diversification initiative designed to furnish small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with a direct digital interface to global consumers.
The roadmap advocates for pivotal policy shifts to assimilate international payment gateways and accessibility to worldwide marketplaces.
This transformation would create a streamlined “click-to-cash” transaction framework, enabling local entrepreneurs to circumvent costly intermediaries.
Consequently, SMEs can market niche products directly to foreign markets, thereby broadening Bangladesh’s export spectrum beyond traditional sectors.
The second cornerstone of the proposition targets global skills alignment, addressing the burgeoning impact of artificial intelligence.
As many as 40 per cent of low-skill positions could succumb to automation in the forthcoming five years. GBA leaders stressed the imperative of transitioning from “exporting labour” to “exporting skills.”
The plan emphasises high-demand, high-touch professions such as specialised nursing and healthcare, vital for catering to the elderly population in advanced economies.
Moreover, there is a focus on acquiring internationally recognised technical certifications to ensure Bangladeshi professionals remain competitive on a global scale.
In a keynote presentation, GBA co-chair Mizan Chowdhury articulated that Bangladesh’s developmental pathway hinges on principled leadership and constructive consensus.
Engaging with the US-Bangladesh caucus and other collaborators, Chowdhury elucidated the alliance’s objective to shape policies across various sectors—trade, investment, technology, innovation, healthcare, culture, and the burgeoning “new economy.”
He emphasised the inseparable connections among innovation, sound governance, and sustainable growth.
Joining the discussion virtually from Washington, D.C., GBA chief coordinator Dr Golam Rabbani Nayan reiterated the necessity of ethical leadership as the bedrock of enduring development.
He mentioned that a GBA delegation would soon return to Bangladesh, “not for patronage politics, but to collaboratively forge the future of Bangladesh.”
The policy conversation concerning the US-Bangladesh caucus, economy, and skills enhancement was adeptly moderated by GBA co-chair Kawser Chowdhury, with substantive contributions from economist Naved Manzoor and entrepreneur Munaf.
This session underscored the imperative of aligning educational frameworks and vocational training with the demands of the global marketplace, particularly within technology-related services.
Dr Moyeen Khan, a member of the BNP’s standing committee and former minister of science and technology, delivered remarks as the chief guest.
He contended that the foundational strides in Bangladesh’s ICT sector were established under BNP governance. He posited that neglecting to build upon that legacy would constitute an affront to past leaders.
Khan posited that citizens prioritise freedom above wealth, asserting that steering the nation’s democratic evolution in a constructive direction constitutes the more substantial accomplishment.
Expressing optimism for the approaching elections, he noted that a representative governance structure would emerge through the democratic procedure.
Abdus Salam, the special guest of the event, urged expatriate professionals to play a more vigorous role in reconstructing Bangladesh.
He argued that comprehensive reform across various sectors necessitates a patriotic government willing to eschew corruption and violence, while resisting hegemonic influences through the ballot.
Engineer Abu Hanip, chairman of People N Tech Group, accentuated the vast opportunities inherent in human capital development.
He underscored that with targeted skills enhancement, Bangladesh’s 76 universities could significantly alleviate unemployment rates.
This dialogue represented GBA’s first tangible engagement in Bangladesh since its inception four months ago, comprising US-based technology experts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
Organisers indicated that the alliance will persist in its policy engagements to fortify digital trade integration and synchronise skills with global market demands, contributing to a comprehensive initiative aimed at unlocking Bangladesh’s economic potential.
Source link: Today.thefinancialexpress.com.bd.
