This post was first published in Facebook on 6th August 2024
“It feels like 16th December all over again.”
This is what my sister wrote from Dhaka today. I was in Dhaka on December 1971 and saw first-hand the euphoria of victory. But there was sadness too at the knowledge that so many had lost their lives during the liberation war. It is the same feeling today – euphoria mixed with profound sadness as we remember the lives lost.
Bangladesh got two major opportunities, one in 1971 and one in 1991 – to build the kind of country that was envisaged during our struggle for liberation – a democratic polity, a non-discriminating society, and an inclusive and vibrant economy. We progressed in some areas but regressed in others. We now have a third opportunity that we must not squander. This requires resolve and clear thinking.
For the past four years I got an extraordinary opportunity to work with many members of the young generation – students, young professionals, academics and journalists. They have the courage, drive, creativity and dedication and, above all, a desire to learn.
The youth should take the lead now.
✍️ Dr Syed Akhtar Mahmood
Chair of Advisory Panel, Youth Policy Forum