Reverse brain drain, a highly idealised concept, has been making waves on social media recently.

In Bangladesh, a thriving freelance economy has emerged as a critical source of income for thousands of young professionals.

In an increasingly interconnected world, education remains the most powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty and inequality. However, for marginalised communities, access to quality education often remains a distant dream. The advent of digital classrooms is rapidly altering this landscape, bridging the gap between privilege and disadvantage. At the Jaago Foundation, we have witnessed firsthand how technology can transform lives, offering opportunities to those who might otherwise be left behind.

In the digital age, educational technology (edtech) is revolutionising teacher training worldwide.

Economic disparity has been a recurring theme in the history of Bangladesh, shaping its past, influencing its present, and challenging its aspirations for the future. From tales of tyranny to the struggle for independence, the narrative of inequality has been a constant companion in the nation’s journey. As Bangladesh sets its sights on a new era, dubbed ‘Bangladesh 2.0’, the call for reducing economic disparity is louder than ever, driven largely by the youth who spearheaded the July Uprising of 2024.

Bangladesh’s struggle with brain drain is not new. According to data collected from 175 countries between 2007 and 2024, the ‘Human Flight and Brain Drain Index’ indicates that Bangladesh has the 37th highest propensity for brain drain.

The youth have long been a driving force behind Bangladeshi political movements. From the language movement of 1952, liberation war of 1971, anti-authoritarian movement of 1990 which toppled the dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad, and the recent July revolution of 2024 led to the fall of the dictator Sheikh Hasina, student-led mass movement, they have repeatedly proven their ability to stand up for justice, democracy, and change.

It is often considered cliche to say “Education is the backbone of a nation”, but it cannot be far from an important truth for Bangladesh.

It’s no secret that the majority now consumes news on social media. From short bits and clips to in-depth deep dives and podcasts, the role of social media in news consumption and circulation cannot be overlooked.

In Bangladesh, academia is often one of the most overlooked aspects that has the potential to greatly contribute to the country’s sustainable development.

In the 21st century, the notion of infrastructure has evolved beyond roads, bridges, and railways. The new lifeline for progress is digital infrastructure—specifically, access to affordable and reliable internet.

In the weeks following August 5, interest from non-resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) in the professional sector surged. Messages poured in: “Tell me how I can help; I’ll move back,” and “I don’t need to make money—I’ll work for free.

History has its moments—points of inflection where societies, seemingly stagnant and indifferent, erupt with untold energy.

The dawn of a new Bangladesh is upon us, shaped by the unwavering spirit of its youth. The historic events of July 2024, when a generation rose to reclaim its future, have set in motion a transformation unlike any before. The fall of a dictatorship was not merely a change in governance—it was a testament to the power of young voices demanding accountability, justice, and a seat at the table. Today, that vision is unfolding in ways both profound and promising.

There’s no denying that July altered the political reality of Bangladesh. The uprising toppled a deeply entrenched despot and unleashed a wave of change that felt as sudden as it was transformative.

“Even if they call me away, my heart will always remain in my motherland,” echoes Kazi Nazrul Islam.

In Bangladesh, academia is often one of the most overlooked aspects that has the potential to greatly contribute to the country’s sustainable development. With the rise in the conversation of the causes of ‘brain drain’, it stands as a critically important point to talk about research and innovation alongside the many limitations to creating innovative new changes that hold us back.

According to a report published in 2023, the number of Bangladeshi students leaving the country every year tripled from 16,609 in 2008 to about 49,151 in 2022.

Edtech (education technology) has come a long way since its inception. In Bangladesh, the landscape has continued to evolve, with more and more players entering the market with every passing year.

The youth, as key drivers of inclusivity, are critically examining the current state of democracy in our country. For them, it is less a triumph than a test—a moment of possibility, shadowed by the weight of history.