Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Tuesday urged the nation`s youth to become entrepreneurs by braving various challenges, assuring them that the government remains firmly by their side.
"You will have to go through many challenges. However, the government is here to support you and guide you. We will do our utmost to stand by you," he stated while speaking at a special event titled "Youth, Startups and Promising Bangladesh" held at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban of the University of Dhaka this morning.
Organized jointly by the Information and Communication Technology Division and the University of Dhaka under the slogan "Let`s Build the Nation Through Startups, Bangladesh First", the opening ceremony was attended by over 230 student entrepreneurs from eight universities alongside successful industry founders, with additional addresses delivered by Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam, Prime Minister`s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad, Acting ICT Division Secretary Md. Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. A.B.M. Obaidul Islam, and committee member Prof Dr. Md. Morshed Hasan Khan.
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Praising the considerable progress and societal contributions made by young creators for the benefit of millions of people across the country, the prime minister shared a personal glimpse of his early life, recounting, "At one stage, I ventured into business to earn a decent living. But shortly after starting, I became actively involved in politics. Realizing that it was not possible to pursue both at the same time, I chose to devote myself entirely to politics," while also recalling past hardships by stating, "To move forward, I had to endure inhumane persecution. I had to go through many tests of patience. But today, Alhamdulillah, by the grace of Allah, I have reached this position," and reiterating his commitment to the audience that "Your journey will also be very challenging. You will have to overcome many challenges. But we will stand by your side. I do not know how much we will be able to do, but we will make our utmost effort to support you, Insha`Allah."
Referring to recent public events, he noted, "It reminded me of the science fairs we enjoyed in our childhood. Students from schools across the country showcased a wide range of innovative projects they had developed," and added regarding a sports gathering, "I also recently attended another event where 22 lakh primary school students from across the country took part in various sports competitions," before observing, "Politics often leaves me discouraged. But after attending those two events and seeing those children, my disappointment disappeared and I felt much more confident. Today, after listening to your presentations and seeing your work, my confidence has grown even stronger."
Remarking on governance, the PM said, "As a politician, I have goals and objectives. My party has plans. We are entrusted with running the country, so we think constantly about its future and about every sector. We have worked day and night to bring positive change," and concluded by stating, "After seeing you today and the children at those two events, I feel confident that we will be able to hand over responsibility to a capable new generation. You will be able to continue advancing the country from where we leave off. With that hope and firm belief in you, I conclude my remarks."
Following scripture recitations, a documentary screening, and an experience-sharing session titled "Not a Story, But Reality", the Prime Minister officially launched the National Startup and Entrepreneurship Platform at startup.ictd.gov.bd, engaged in an open discussion with students, toured exhibition stalls, and presented grant cheques to representatives of six selected startups, including an immediate on-the-spot grant handed to Lutfunnesa Meghna, founder of Rafiha Fashion House, after she informed him that she had applied for financial assistance to promote traditional Jamdani textiles, all as part of a national priority to integrate youth innovation into economic progress via initiatives like the BDT 500 crore Startup Fund under the government`s 2026 election manifesto.
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