HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT IN BANGLADESH: STRATEGIC PERSPECTIVE

This article reviews the strategic role of human resource development (HRD) in Bangladesh in fostering economic growth and global competitiveness. It examines education, vocational training, public sector reforms, and private sector initiatives that collectively shape human capital. The paper explores the challenges of aligning curricula with market demand, bridging rural–urban skill divides, and combating brain drain. It also evaluates government initiatives like Vision 2021 and poverty reduction strategies to enhance workforce capabilities. The research argues that sustainable growth requires coordinated policies on education quality, skill certification, and lifelong learning. By positioning HRD at the center of development, Bangladesh can accelerate its transition from low-wage manufacturing to knowledge-based industries.

The body begins with demographic trends highlighting the youth bulge and labor force participation. Section One examines education quality: teacher training, curriculum reform, dropout rates, and ICT-enabled learning. Section Two evaluates vocational and technical training: TVET institutions, apprenticeship systems, and public-private partnerships. Section Three explores higher education and R&D: university governance, funding, and international collaboration. Section Four assesses labor market linkages: job-matching platforms, certification systems, and migration strategies for overseas employment. Section Five considers governance: decentralization, gender equity in HRD, and anti-corruption safeguards. The conclusion proposes a strategic HRD framework integrating education, skills, and governance reforms to transform Bangladesh’s workforce into a competitive advantage.