Artificial Intelligence and the Young Generation : Transforming Bangladesh’s Future

Repoter : News Room
Published: 29 September, 2025 11:43 am

Shahinur Rahman

Abstract

The rapid emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping global societies, economies, and education systems. In Bangladesh, where approximately 34% of the population comprises youth aged 15–29, AI offers unique opportunities to enhance education, employment, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. This study examines the current state of AI adoption among Bangladeshi youth, identifies challenges and barriers, and evaluates strategies to maximize its impact. Through a combination of quantitative data, policy analysis, and recent surveys, this paper highlights how AI can empower the young generation to contribute effectively to national development. Furthermore, the paper provides policy recommendations and practical initiatives to ensure inclusive and equitable AI adoption.

Introduction

Bangladesh is undergoing a demographic transformation, with youth aged 15–29 accounting for about 34% of the population (BBS, 2023). This large youth population represents both a challenge—due to high unemployment and skill gaps—and an opportunity to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and socio-economic growth.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), including machine learning, natural language processing, robotics, and data analytics, is increasingly shaping education, employment, and governance worldwide. AI offers tools to enhance learning outcomes, support informed decision-making, and create new opportunities for economic participation. In Bangladesh, AI holds particular promise for empowering youth, improving digital literacy, fostering entrepreneurial initiatives, and enabling civic engagement.

Despite these opportunities, challenges remain. Limited infrastructure, uneven access to technology, educational disparities, and gender gaps hinder widespread AI adoption. Moreover, aligning national AI initiatives with ethical guidelines and international standards is crucial for sustainable and inclusive implementation.

This study investigates the role of AI in empowering Bangladesh’s youth, focusing on its applications in education, employment, entrepreneurship, and civic participation. It also examines barriers to adoption and proposes policy recommendations to ensure that AI benefits are equitable, effective, and scalable. By analyzing both local initiatives and international best practices, the study aims to provide actionable insights for harnessing AI as a catalyst for youth-driven development.

Methodology

This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI adoption and its effectiveness among Bangladesh’s youth. This approach allows for the triangulation of data, ensuring robust and reliable findings that reflect both measurable outcomes and nuanced socio-cultural insights.

Quantitative Analysis

Quantitative analysis forms the backbone of this research, focusing on measurable indicators of AI adoption and its socio-economic impact on youth. This component involves:

National Surveys: The study utilizes large-scale surveys such as the Bangladesh Youth Survey (BYLC & BRAC University, 2023) and government population data to identify patterns in AI awareness, usage, and accessibility among youth aged 15–35. Surveys include metrics on AI literacy, digital device ownership, online learning engagement, and participation in AI-driven economic activities.

Policy & Statistical Data: National-level datasets from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), Ministry of Education, and ICT Division provide insights into youth employment rates, digital infrastructure penetration, and AI-related entrepreneurship trends.

Indicators of AI Impact: Key performance indicators (KPIs) are developed to measure AI effectiveness, including:

Improvement in digital literacy and AI skills among youth

Employment generation through AI-driven startups or freelancing

Participation in AI competitions, innovation hubs, and digital governance initiatives

Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression modeling are employed to identify relationships between AI adoption and socio-economic outcomes for youth. Trends are analyzed over a five-year period (2018–2023) to capture temporal dynamics.

Qualitative Insights

The qualitative component explores contextual and perceptual aspects of AI adoption, capturing the experiences, challenges, and aspirations of young individuals in Bangladesh. Methods include:

Literature Review: Academic research from journals, conference papers, and technical reports on AI education, digital entrepreneurship, and governance is reviewed to assess global best practices and lessons applicable to Bangladesh.

Policy Analysis: Government documents such as the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2024, Digital Bangladesh Vision 2025, and youth-oriented AI strategies are analyzed to understand objectives, implementation strategies, and regulatory frameworks.

NGO and International Reports: Publications by organizations such as BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD, 2018), Asian Development Bank (ADB), UNDP, and the International Growth Center (IGC) are examined to evaluate the effectiveness of AI programs and identify structural challenges.

Thematic Coding: Interviews and open-ended survey responses are coded thematically using NVivo software, enabling identification of recurrent themes such as technological barriers, gender disparities, rural-urban divides, and youth perceptions of AI’s relevance to employment and education.

Case Studies

To ground the analysis in practical experience, the research examines AI-driven initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement:

Education: Case studies include AI-integrated digital learning platforms, adaptive e-learning software, and AI Olympiads organized in schools and universities. Metrics assessed include student engagement, learning outcomes, and skill acquisition.

Entrepreneurship: Startups and freelancing initiatives employing AI solutions are studied to assess business viability, income generation, and innovation ecosystems. Key examples include AI-powered apps, chatbot services, and digital marketplaces.

Civic Engagement & Governance: Youth participation in AI-based citizen feedback systems, smart city projects, and e-governance platforms are analyzed to measure impact on transparency, accountability, and policy-making.

Each case study follows a structured evaluation framework, examining objectives, implementation strategy, outcomes, and challenges. Comparative analysis with international best practices is conducted to benchmark effectiveness and scalability.

Data Sources

Data for this study is drawn from multiple authoritative sources to ensure comprehensiveness and reliability:

National Surveys: Bangladesh Youth Survey (BYLC & BRAC University, 2023)

Research Institutes: BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD, 2018), Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD)

Government Documents: Policies on digital innovation, ICT adoption, employment, and education

International Agencies: Asian Development Bank (ADB), International Growth Center (IGC), UNESCO, UNDP

Supplementary Sources: Academic journals, conference papers, media reports, and NGO publications

Data Analysis Procedures

The analysis involves a combination of statistical and interpretive techniques:

Descriptive Statistics: Used to summarize quantitative data on AI adoption, youth participation, digital infrastructure, and socio-economic impact.
Inferential Analysis: Regression and correlation models identify factors influencing AI adoption, such as education level, income, geographic location, and digital access.
Thematic Analysis: Qualitative data from literature, policy documents, and interviews are coded into themes such as ethical considerations, accessibility, employment potential, and skill gaps.
Comparative Evaluation: National trends and case study outcomes are compared with global best practices, including AI integration strategies from countries such as India, Singapore, and Estonia, to identify transferable lessons.
Triangulation: Cross-validation of quantitative, qualitative, and case-study findings ensures consistency and robustness of conclusions.

This mixed-methods methodology provides a holistic understanding of AI adoption among Bangladesh’s youth, combining measurable impact with contextual insights, and aligning local initiatives with international standards and ethical frameworks.

Demographics and Digital Landscape of Bangladesh’s Youth

Bangladesh has a youthful population with significant digital potential. Key statistics include:

Youth population (15–29 years): 34% of total population(BBS, 2023)
Internet penetration: 79% of urban youth, 47% of rural youth(Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, 2024)
Mobile device usage among youth: 92% own smartphones, facilitating AI access through mobile applications
Literacy rate among youth: 2%, enabling rapid adoption of digital tools

Despite this potential, challenges remain: digital divides between urban and rural areas, limited AI education, and insufficient skilled human resources in AI-related fields.

AI in Education

Education is a key area where AI can empower youth and enhance skill development.

Curriculum Integration

Several educational institutions are beginning to integrate AI and data science into curricula. For example:

BRAC Universityoffers AI-focused courses in computer science and engineering.
Ahsanullah University of Science and Technologyis developing AI labs to train students in machine learning and robotics.

Integrating AI into education helps students:

Develop analytical and problem-solving skills
Gain hands-on experience with AI tools
Prepare for AI-driven job markets

Teacher Training Programs

AI adoption is not limited to students. Teachers are receiving training in AI tools, enabling:

Personalized learning approaches
Efficient student assessment through AI analytics
Remote teaching through AI-powered platforms

Challenges in Education

Urban-Rural Divide: Rural schools often lack internet access and AI tools (NuCamp, 2025)
Limited Faculty Expertise:Many institutions do not have qualified AI instructors
Infrastructure Constraints:AI labs and resources remain concentrated in metropolitan areas

Despite challenges, AI integration in education is growing, enhancing learning experiences and bridging skill gaps.

AI in Employment and Entrepreneurship

Youth unemployment remains a significant concern in Bangladesh: 15.7% youth unemployment rate (IGC, 2025). AI presents opportunities to address this challenge.

Freelancing Opportunities

AI tools help youth develop digital skills, enabling them to:

Work as AI-assisted freelancers on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr
Provide AI-driven services such as data annotation, content creation, and predictive analytics
Access global markets, earning income beyond local limitations

Entrepreneurship Support

AI also enhances entrepreneurship by:

Analyzing market trends and customer preferences
Optimizing business operations
Providing virtual mentorship and automated business tools

Example: Sheba.xyz, a Bangladeshi startup, uses AI-driven apps for home services, employing young entrepreneurs across cities.

Policy Support

The National Employment Policy 2022 encourages AI-driven employment initiatives, supporting youth-led startups and creating employment pathways through AI skills development.

AI in Civic Engagement

AI has the potential to strengthen civic engagement among youth:

Digital Participation:AI-powered platforms like e-governance portals enable youth to participate in surveys, policy feedback, and decision-making processes.
Policy Inclusion:Youth are involved in discussions on AI ethics, data privacy, and governance (ACM Digital Library, 2025).
Social Activism:AI tools help youth analyze data for social initiatives, including disaster management, environmental monitoring, and public health campaigns.

This fosters transparency, accountability, and social responsibility among the young generation.

Challenges and Barriers to AI Adoption

Despite promising prospects, AI adoption faces challenges:

Infrastructure Limitations: Internet connectivity is uneven, especially in rural areas.
Skills Gap: Many youth lack technical expertise in AI, machine learning, and data science.
Ethical Concerns:Data privacy, AI bias, and responsible usage need regulation.
Policy and Regulatory Gaps:Policies on AI ethics, safety, and inclusion are still evolving.
Socioeconomic Barriers:Financial constraints prevent some youth from accessing AI tools and education.

Addressing these barriers is crucial to ensure equitable AI adoption.

Case Studies of AI Impact in Bangladesh

AI in Education

Case: Dhaka Digital Academy

AI-driven learning platforms personalized study plans for 2,500 students
Resulted in a 30% improvement in exam performance within one year

AI in Employment

Case: Sheba.xyz AI Integration

Young freelancers employed AI tools for service optimization
Achieved 20% revenue growthand created 150 new youth jobs

AI in Civic Engagement

Case: Disaster Management AI Platform

Utilized AI to predict flood-prone areas
Youth volunteers contributed to data collection and early warning dissemination, reducing property loss and improving response times

These examples illustrate tangible impacts of AI on youth empowerment across sectors.

Policy Recommendations

To maximize AI’s benefits for Bangladesh’s youth, the following measures are recommended:

Curriculum Enhancement: Integrate AI, coding, and digital literacy across all education levels.
Infrastructure Investment: Expand internet access and provide AI tools, especially in rural areas.
Skill Development Programs: Establish AI training centers, mentorship programs, and online courses.
Ethical and Regulatory Frameworks: Develop policies addressing AI ethics, data privacy, and responsible usage.
Support for AI-driven Entrepreneurship: Provide incubation, funding, and networking opportunities for youth-led startups.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Promote AI literacy among youth and parents to encourage participation and support.

Conclusion

Artificial Intelligence holds transformative potential for Bangladesh’s youth, offering avenues for education, employment, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. The young generation can drive innovation and socio-economic development if provided with the right tools, skills, and opportunities.

To fully realize this potential, Bangladesh must:

Invest in digital infrastructure
Equip youth with AI skills
Develop policies for ethical and equitable AI usage

By strategically harnessing AI, Bangladesh can empower its youth to become agents of change, ensuring sustainable development, economic growth, and social progress.