One year post the downfall of the Hasina administration, five Bangladeshi students at Cornell University in the US contemplate a country undergoing change and imagine a future beyond authoritarianism.
Bangladesh has witnessed significant advancements in various health indicators over time; however, there remains widespread dissatisfaction with health services. To address this, critical reforms are imperative.
The nation should establish and reinforce a comprehensive referral system to ensure smooth patient transitions among primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare facilities. Emphasis must be placed on enhancing primary care, particularly in urban regions where disparities affect low- and middle-income individuals. Residents in slum areas face notable challenges like undernutrition and limited access to crucial women’s health services, necessitating targeted interventions.
Moreover, Bangladesh must tackle the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, heart ailments, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, mental health disorders, and age-related neurodegenerative conditions. Given the projected near doubling of the elderly population by 2050, the strained healthcare system should prioritize specialized care for this vulnerable group. Investments in infrastructure, diagnostic equipment, and skilled personnel at primary care facilities are crucial.
Incorporating emerging technologies, particularly AI-driven wearable devices like smartwatches, for monitoring vital signs can facilitate early detection of potential health risks and chronic conditions. Proactive monitoring could significantly reduce emergency hospitalizations and premature deaths while enhancing overall health outcomes. Data aggregation from wearables could provide real-time insights into national health trends, enabling preventive strategies rather than costly treatments. However, the widespread adoption of such digital health solutions necessitates a robust digital infrastructure. The country must develop a unified electronic health record (EHR) system integrating data from hospitals, primary care facilities, and wearables for effective utilization.
Advancements in AI and biomedical technology can also greatly enhance nutrition outcomes. Instead of generic nutrition programs, adopting precision nutrition tailored to individual needs can combat deficiencies and prevent associated chronic diseases. Implementing a nationwide school-based nutritional assessment program, integrating health and nutrition education into the curriculum, and enhancing school meal programs are vital steps to boost overall nutrition and prevent future nutrition-related NCDs.
Lastly, increasing the allocation of resources to the healthcare sector from five percent to a minimum of 15 percent of the national budget is essential. Additionally, effective policies and evidence-based public health programs are imperative for sustainable progress.
Bangladesh’s demographic dividend risks becoming a liability unless its expanding workforce gains access to meaningful employment. Unemployment figures rose from 2.49 million in 2023 to 2.66 million by September 2024, with a significant number lacking formal employment. Despite this, Bangladesh ranks as the world’s second-largest provider of online freelance services, contributing around 16 percent globally. Surveys reveal aspirations for entrepreneurship and a preference for remote work among many individuals.
This trend highlights a notable policy gap. To transition freelancers into entrepreneurs, the government must view digital work on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and Toptal as strategic exports. Education and vocational training should focus on digital skills, English proficiency, and client management. Collaborations between the National Skills Development Authority and industry can create tailored curricula, while incentives like scholarships and stipends can encourage the enrollment of women and rural youth.
Infrastructure and regulatory support are equally critical. Access to reliable broadband and uninterrupted electricity is vital for remote work. The government should streamline payment systems and establish formal partnerships with global platforms to facilitate secure financial transactions. Providing freelancer identity cards and expanding loan access would further bolster digital entrepreneurship. Establishing freelancing hubs offering shared services, mentorship, and legal assistance can nurture startups.
Labor laws need to evolve to recognize digital workers, ensuring fair contracts and effective dispute resolution. Trade negotiators should advocate for cross-border data flows to secure international market access. These focused reforms are crucial for positioning Bangladesh as a hub for exportable digital services, reducing its dependence on sectors like the garment industry and remittances.
AI and robotics are reshaping daily life worldwide. As global tech giants surge ahead, Bangladesh must not remain a passive consumer of foreign technology. Developing indigenous AI and robotics applications is vital to address unique challenges. In developed nations, firefighters utilize water drones and search-and-rescue robots to combat fires and save lives. Drones and automated systems offer transformative solutions for Bangladesh’s needs during floods, cyclones, and earthquakes. These devices can deliver emergency supplies to isolated communities and conduct search-and-rescue operations in hazardous areas.
AI can also revolutionize communication, focusing on seamless connections among citizens, AI assistants, and robotic systems. Transitioning from 4G to 5G infrastructure is crucial for high-speed connectivity essential for real-time AI coordination and robotic response systems. Allocating sufficient budget and developing supportive policies to encourage innovators of digital solutions and AI-powered technologies tailored to the local context are paramount.
Bangladesh is globally acknowledged as a leader in climate adaptation, lauded for vulnerability-driven planning and active participation in