Prime Minister (PM) Tareq Rahman on Tuesday said young entrepreneurs are central to Bangladesh’s future, speaking at the “Youth, Startups and Bangladesh of Possibilities” event at the Nawab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building, held in collaboration with the university and the government’s ICT Division, said in a press release.
The programme, organised to integrate youth innovation and entrepreneurial potential into national development, was attended by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Amin, Hall Provost and Hall Council President Professor Dr Md Anwar Hossain Mizhi, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Fakir Mahbub Anam MP, Prime Minister’s ICT Adviser Rehan Asif Asad, and other university officials, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers.
The event began with the national anthem and readings from sacred texts, followed by a documentary on Bangladesh’s startup ecosystem, interactive sessions with successful entrepreneurs, and an open discussion between students and the Prime Minister. Selected startup entrepreneurs also received grants and checks. The session was conducted by University Grants Commission member Professor Dr Abdullah-Al-Mamun.
Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam presented the Prime Minister with a commemorative plaque. The Vice-Chancellor said the event was not merely ceremonial but a platform for dialogue on youth aspirations, innovation and challenges. He emphasised research as the lifeblood of the university and encouraged students to view technology-driven entrepreneurship as a pathway to national development, particularly across sectors including transport, health, education, agriculture and rural economy.
The Prime Minister inaugurated the “National Startup and Entrepreneurship Platform,” a digital launchpad providing access to government support, training, mentoring, investment opportunities, partner institutions and entrepreneur development services.
Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister said young entrepreneurs’ innovation and creativity are vital for economic development, job creation and social progress. He highlighted the importance of perseverance, determination and self-confidence in overcoming challenges and achieving success. He reassured attendees that the government is fully committed to supporting entrepreneurs with guidance and resources.
Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Amin highlighted the hall’s significance, reputation, and Hall Council initiatives that have fostered student engagement and awareness of their rights following 5 August. Additional remarks were delivered by GS Saeed Bin Habib, AGS Ayubur Rahman Toufiq and Health Secretary Imran Hossain Afnan. The welcome address was presented by Vice-President of the hall council Sumaiya Nusrat. The programme was conducted by athlete Shrutiraj Chowdhury.
Awards and certificates were presented to high-achieving students from various departments. Prayers were offered for the eternal peace of the late President Ziaur Rahman and national leader Begum Khaleda Zia. The event was attended by resident teachers, university representatives, hall council members, female students and staff.
The Prime Minister also toured exhibition stalls in the Senate Building, which will remain open until 4pm on 15 July. Approximately 250 students and entrepreneurs from eight educational institutions attended.
He noted that a 5 billion-taka startup fund has been established to support youth and women entrepreneurs, enabling economic growth, employment creation, and technology-driven innovation.
