'Impact Talk 2025' inspires youth to lead sustainable development

Impact Talk 2025, organised by The Daily Star and Meghna Group of Industries (MGI) in association with Bloodman and Keeron, was hosted at The Daily Star Centre in participation of experts and youth leaders to discuss sustainable development in climate, education, health, technology, and employment.  

The event was themed "Rebuild, Restrengthen, Reignite the Nation: Youth for Sustainable Development". It highlighted the critical role of young people in addressing pressing challenges. 

In the opening remark, Md Sahariar Hasan Jiisun, founder and chairman of Bloodman, said, "Youth can play bigger and more effective roles than governments. As we individuals together are agents of change, we are responsible for making our country and the world a better place. The time to act is now." 

Key discussions centered on education, health, climate action, technology, and employment. 

Education Technology Expert Shefatul Islam highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence to revolutionise learning by creating personalised pathways. 

Sharmin Islam, Gender Team Leader at UNDP Bangladesh, called for equitable education systems and urged youth to challenge societal norms.  

In health, Anusha Chowdhury, Co-founder of Let's Talk Mental Health, stressed breaking the stigma around mental health and ensuring comprehensive care. 

Iftekhar Ahmed Sakib, Vice-President for External Affairs at Bangladesh Medical Students' Society, emphasised youth involvement in creating inclusive healthcare systems.  

Environmental issues were addressed by Ahsan Rony, Executive Director of Mission Green Bangladesh, who inspired participants to take small but meaningful steps, such as tree planting and policy advocacy.  

Discussions on technology and employment focused on addressing graduate unemployment and preparing for future demands. Bdjobs.com Co-founder and CEO A.K.M Fahim Mashroor highlighted the need for upskilling in digital and technical fields, while Mondip Gharai, Senior Assistant Secretary at the National Academy for Development Administration, emphasised the importance of continuous learning in an evolving job market.  

Speakers, including Sevki Mert Baris of TiKA and Rubaya Nasrin Shejuti of Oxfam Bangladesh, reiterated the importance of collaboration and collective action to ensure sustainable development.  

The event concluded with a call to action, emphasising that youth are not just observers but drivers of change. Impact Talk 2025 showcased the power of youth to lead initiatives in climate resilience, education reform, healthcare accessibility, and employment, inspiring a future driven by innovation and collaboration.