The study, titled “Study on Skill Requirement for Youth Development Targeting-2041,” conducted by DM WATCH LIMITED in collaboration with the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Youth Development, aimed to identify the essential skills youth will need to meet the evolving employment landscape by 2041 in Bangladesh. This forward-looking research sought to create a comprehensive roadmap for youth development in the realm of employability skills.

Employing a multi-pronged approach, the study first assessed the present skillset of the youth in relation to current employment requirements. It then identified the requisite skills they would need to be employable by 2041. Special focus was given to skill development through targeted training and education. The study was comprehensive, targeting youth across various regions of Bangladesh to ensure a broad-spectrum analysis. Information was gleaned through a combination of surveys, focus groups, and interviews with industry experts. Statistical and thematic analyses were carried out to establish correlations between existing skills, future needs, and the educational fields that can facilitate such skill development.

This study outlined the present condition of youth in terms of employability skills and identified skill gaps. It also highlighted future skill requirements, including digital literacy, soft skills, and specialized vocational skills necessary for youth employment by 2041. The study finally recommended targeted educational and training programs, focusing on the necessary skill sets, to ensure youth are adequately prepared for the future job market.

The study offered actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and employers, emphasizing the need for a cohesive, long-term strategy for youth skill development aligned with the future needs of the job market. This comprehensive study serves as a cornerstone for the development of national policies aimed at equipping the youth of Bangladesh with the skills needed to navigate future employment challenges, thereby enriching the country’s human capital by 2041.

Key Highlights of the Assignment

DM WATCH LIMITED conducted the following key activities during the assignment:

Inception Phase:

• Conducted a comprehensive desk review of existing literature, government policies, and labor market trends.
• Developed and submitted an inception report detailing the methodology, tools, and work plan.

Development and Finalization of Tools:

• Designed data collection tools (quantitative and qualitative) such as questionnaires, checklists, and interview guides.
• Conducted a sensemaking and validation workshop to refine the study design, methodology, and tools.
• Undertook field testing of the tools and finalized them based on practical insights and feedback.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Carried out quantitative surveys across 8 divisions, targeting 1,020 youth respondents, employing multi-stage cluster sampling.
• Conducted qualitative interviews, including 20 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and 12 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with youth organizations, educators, and employers.
• Analyzed data using advanced statistical tools and qualitative thematic coding to extract insights on youth employment and skill gaps.

Key Research Areas:

• Examined youth preferences for training and skill development.
• Assessed alignment of existing training programs with current and future market demands.
• Evaluated barriers to accessing education and training, particularly for marginalized groups.
• Identified sector-specific skills and job market requirements, focusing on IT, Agro-Food, and Entrepreneurship.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Facilitated validation workshops with stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and employers, to refine the findings and recommendations.
• Organized and facilitated a national dissemination workshop to share the findings with policymakers, industry representatives, and development partners.
• Delivered the final report, along with slide decks and other dissemination materials.

Deliverables:

• Submitted a comprehensive draft report outlining findings, analysis, and actionable recommendations.
• Finalized the report incorporating feedback from SHNIYD and stakeholders.
• Prepared an infographic summary and presentation materials for dissemination at a national seminar.

Capacity Building:

• Provided recommendations to enhance institutional capacity for skill development, emphasizing public-private partnerships and gender-sensitive approaches.