We live in an age where globalisation influences dreams and opportunities. The world is more interconnected than ever before, and venturing outside one’s own country to pursue education has become systematically easier and increasingly popular among the younger generation.
The number of Bangladeshi students seeking education overseas has tripled in the last 15 years, a remarkable increase even as the country’s educational opportunities—at least in numbers—have expanded significantly. This phenomenon, though not exclusive to Bangladesh, is prevalent among young people from developing countries worldwide, motivated by the desire for better education, more job opportunities, and improved living conditions. Given Bangladesh's considerable economic and social progress in recent years, the country must now ask if it faces the challenge of retaining its talented youth despite its steady climb in development indexes.
The focus on constructing academic buildings rather than investing in educational quality underscores a systemic issue. While the number of universities approved and under construction has increased, the emphasis remains on quantity rather than improving educational standards.
This has created a system where passing exams and obtaining certificates are more important than actual learning and growth. As a result, when students graduate after their four-year degree—often delayed by numerous session jams—they struggle to find and fit into the workforce.
With a population of over 17.3 crores, the country still struggles to cultivate a workforce of skilled and highly qualified individuals who can actively compete against other growing countries. Despite the Bangladesh government's efforts to expand higher education by establishing 25 new public universities and approving 56 private universities since 2008, the migration of students seeking education abroad continues to rise. Recent reports indicate that around 4.4 million students are currently enrolled in the nation's 53 public and 111 private universities, along with their affiliated colleges. However, many of these established institutions struggle with inadequate
infrastructure, a shortage of skilled faculty, and limited research facilities. Consequently, students increasingly look overseas for higher-quality education, highlighting the dire need for significant improvements within the domestic education system to meet the aspirations of Bangladesh's youth and retain their talent.
This trend is further evidenced by the most recently published Open Doors Report, which reveals that the number of Bangladeshi students studying in the United States reached a record high of 13,563 in the 2022-2023 academic year. This represents a 28% increase from the previous year and one of the highest overall increases in the world. Over the past decade, the number of Bangladeshi students in the U.S. has grown by more than 300%, underscoring the ongoing pursuit of better opportunities abroad and the pressing need for substantial improvements in Bangladesh's higher education system.
In 2022, at least 49,151 Bangladeshi students went to study in 58 different countries, according to the latest UNESCO data. This number has more than doubled since 2013 when it was 24,112 and has nearly tripled since 2008 when it was 16,609.
This global migration of students is driven not only by the lack of quality in higher education or job opportunities but also by political uncertainties, safety concerns, and the mental health of professionals in Bangladesh. Already limited job opportunities are further exacerbated by nepotism and corruption, prompting parents to invest their savings in their children's future abroad, where they believe better career prospects and fairer opportunities await. Political uncertainties, a lack of transparency in government, and a perception of weak law and order and government institutions push students to seek stability and conducive learning environments
overseas.
Safety concerns, especially for female students facing issues of violence and restricted movement in both home and public settings, also play a crucial role. This shift highlights a departure from traditional norms, as parents now prioritize their daughters' safety and independence over concerns about studying abroad before marriage. These challenges collectively compel students to seek a better life abroad, underscoring the urgent need for significant improvements in Bangladesh's educational and socio-economic systems.
In conclusion, Bangladesh is at an important crossroads as more young people opt to study abroad for better opportunities. Despite so-called improvements in education at home, there are massive gaps in policy and the implementation of the publicised vision. This pushes students to seek better education and jobs overseas, where standards are higher and environments safer. To keep its talented youth and improve its education system, Bangladesh must tackle these issues seriously as this is key to ensure a future where young Bangladeshis can succeed both locally and internationally.
