Technical Education Key to Overcoming Post-LDC Challenges: Dr Debapriya

Dr Debapriya Bhattacharya, Convener of the Citizens' Platform for SDGs, emphasised that technical and vocational education will be crucial for Bangladesh as it navigates the challenges of graduating from the Least Developed Countries (LDC) list.

Speaking at a press conference titled "Technical and Vocational Education in Bangladesh: Current Status and Reform Ideas," held at the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) office in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Dr Debapriya stressed the need to prioritise these sectors and move away from discriminatory policies.

"To build a skilled workforce, we must invest in human resource development and give technical and vocational education the importance it deserves," he said.

The event, organised by the Citizens' Platform for SDGs, aimed to draw government attention to the pressing issues facing technical and vocational institutions and to propose strategic policy measures.

Dr Mustafizur Rahman, a CPD Fellow, also spoke at the event.

Dr Debapriya expressed concern about ongoing student protests, noting that their voices are not being heard and that media coverage is lacking. "Policymakers are failing to adequately address students’ demands," he added.

He also highlighted findings from a social audit conducted last year in collaboration with the Citizens' Platform. The audit, which included feedback from students, teachers, parents, government officials, and other stakeholders, shed light on critical issues such as teaching quality, institutional effectiveness, recognition of technical degrees in local and global job markets, and prevailing negative social attitudes toward technical education.

Based on the findings, a national conference was held in Dhaka on November 2, 2024, to further discuss necessary reforms.