A New Hope for Bangladesh’s Young Dreamers
In a time when countless young Bangladeshis dream of building something of their own — a business, a career, a better future and the upcoming national budget for 2025–26 brings a glimmer of hope.
Youth self employment is when young people take charge by starting their own businesses or work to create their own path and earn a living. The Finance Ministry is preparing to allocate Tk100 crore to support youth self employment, aiming to turn those dreams into reality. This initiative, led by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is more than just a budgetary allocation. It is a vision for a Bangladesh where no young person has to give up on their goals due to a lack of opportunity or capital.
A Vision Rooted in Empathy
During a meeting with the Finance Division on Saturday, Prof Yunus a Nobel laureate known globally for championing micro-credit and social business, proposed the creation of a dedicated fund for unemployed youth and aspiring entrepreneurs. His message was clear: the country’s future lies in the hands of its young people and they need support, not barriers.
The head of the interim government didn’t stop at youth employment. He outlined an expansive vision for the nation, calling for reforms in key sectors such as education, healthcare, women’s rights and inflation control. But his focus on young people specially those struggling to find work or start their ventures struck a deeply emotional chord.
Listening to the Unheard
According to a senior official at the Finance Division, many young people across Bangladesh, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, are full of potential but lack access to capital. “The chief adviser wants these young men and women to know they’re not forgotten,” said the official, speaking anonymously. “He wants them to become job creators, not job seekers.”
The official added that the initial allocation of Tk100 crore will be just the beginning. Detailed guidelines will follow and covering everything from who is eligible, to how long the loans will last, and how much interest will be charged. But the core principle is simple: the process should be easy, transparent, and youth-friendly.
A Small Push That Can Change Lives
Prof Yunus believes that even small loans  when given with care and intention can change lives. That philosophy will be at the heart of this programme. The fund will prioritize accessibility over bureaucracy, ensuring that even young people with no financial backing can dare to dream. It’s not just about money. It’s about trusting the youth of Bangladesh to lead the way, and investing in their courage and ideas.
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A Youth Self Employment Budget With Humanity at Its Core
This youth fund is only part of a much broader budget that aims to lift up the people of Bangladesh specially those who have long been overlooked. Prof Yunus has recommended several people-centered initiatives: from raising household incomes and creating decent jobs, to expanding healthcare services, and protecting the environment through development taxes. His focus is clear that building a Bangladesh that works for everyone, not just the privileged few.
A Safer World for the Next Generation
The chief adviser also spoke passionately about children, their right to grow up in a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment. He emphasized the role of education, health, and sports in shaping the minds and bodies of future generations.
While there won’t be a separate budget line for this, programmes under the Primary and Mass Education Ministry and the Education Ministry will carry forward these child-focused initiatives.
The Road Ahead
The budget for FY2025-26 is set to be presented on June 2 by Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, broadcast live on Bangladesh Television (BTV). Since Parliament is not in session, this year’s budget will be shared directly with the people of a fitting move for a document so focused on grassroots empowerment.
The total budget size is expected to reach Tk7.9 lakh crore, with Tk2.3 lakh crore earmarked for development and Tk5.6 lakh crore for non-development expenditures. But beyond the numbers and allocations, the real message of this budget is hope  for a generation that’s ready to lead, if only given the chance.
