Dr. Yunus: Youth Must Be Central to the Strategy

Dr. Yunus: Youth Must Be Central to the Strategy

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the interim government's chief adviser of Bangladesh, emphasized that youth and students must be at the heart of any strategy for the Global South, given that they make up a significant portion of the population. He shared this during the third "Voice of Global South Summit," held virtually on Saturday.

This summit, hosted by India and chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked Dr. Yunus' first multilateral meeting since taking office. Indian Prime Minister Modi personally invited him to participate in this Leader's Session.

In his address, Dr. Yunus highlighted that two-thirds of the population is made up of young people. “They are the most powerful segment of society," he said. "They are different and committed to building a new world.”

The Nobel Peace Prize laureate from 2006 stressed that today's youth, especially students, are more capable and technologically advanced than previous generations. They are natural entrepreneurs and innovators who can turn the impossible into reality. Yet, the current education systems prepare them primarily for jobs, not entrepreneurship.

“All people are born as creative beings and natural entrepreneurs,” Yunus stated, “but our education and financial systems are designed only to create job-seekers.” He proposed that the Global South could benefit significantly by fostering the creativity and energy of its young population through social businesses.

He called on leaders from across the Global South to unite in promoting social business as a way to tackle environmental and social challenges. “Together, we can become a powerful force," he urged. Dr. Yunus emphasized that aging doesn't mean stepping back from economic activity.

The interim government he leads is committed to fostering a transition to an inclusive, multi-party democracy in Bangladesh, ensuring a free, fair, and participatory election. Key reforms are underway in the electoral system, judiciary, local government, media, economy, and education.

Dr. Yunus also extended an invitation to Global South leaders to visit Dhaka. He noted that much of the city has become a "graffiti capital" with students and children painting vibrant images of an eco-friendly, democratic Bangladesh. He invoked history by recalling that in 1952, Bangladeshi students gave their lives to defend their mother tongue—a legacy that continues to inspire youth-led movements for democracy and human rights across the Global South.

He concluded by expressing his honor to be part of this youth revolution, urging leaders to support their efforts toward democracy, dignity, equality, and shared prosperity. 

India hosted the first Voice of Global South Summit in January 2023, followed by the second in November of the same year, both held virtually.