In Bangladesh, when students are asked about their future aspirations, common responses often include dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, BCS officers, or seeking opportunities abroad. The desire to go abroad is often seen as a necessity rather than a career choice, prompting a critical question: How can we create a nation where talented individuals are motivated to stay and contribute to national development?
World Creativity and Innovation Day, celebrated on April 21, aims to highlight the significance of creativity and innovation in human progress. While this day typically sparks policy discussions and innovation summits globally, Bangladesh seems to lag behind in utilizing this occasion for constructive dialogues. With the impending graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) status, which could impact trade preferences covering a substantial portion of exports, it is imperative to strategize for a smooth transition and ensure sustained economic growth.
The inception of World Creativity and Innovation Day traces back to 2002 when Marci Segal, a Canadian advocate for creativity, initiated the observance to address an innovation gap in her country. Over time, this initiative evolved into a global mandate through the UN Resolution 71/284. The choice of April 21, just before Earth Day, symbolizes the interconnectedness of creativity and sustainability, emphasizing their pivotal role in global economic activities.
Notably, Shashi Tharoor emphasized India’s potential to become a global innovation hub, attributing this to deliberate policy measures. India’s success in establishing over 1,800 Global Capability Centers (GCCs) underscores the importance of creating conducive environments for multinational companies to thrive. Similarly, Bangladesh boasts a pool of talented engineers, with a significant number engaged in freelancing and contributing substantially to the IT sector’s revenue.
Despite Bangladesh’s commendable performance in innovation, as evidenced by its Global Innovation Index ranking, there remains a disparity in research and development investment compared to other economies. Enhancing funding for research, revamping the education sector to align with market demands, decentralizing innovation hubs beyond Dhaka, attracting GCC investments, and incentivizing professionals to stay and contribute locally are crucial steps to foster innovation and economic growth.
As Bangladesh approaches the challenge of LDC graduation, establishing a robust innovation strategy is paramount. Adapting to changing trade dynamics, embracing technology, and nurturing a culture of innovation are essential for sustainable progress. By harnessing the nation’s talent and building supportive ecosystems, Bangladesh can seize opportunities for growth and development. The urgency lies in transforming aspirations into actionable policies before time runs out.
