Reform Bangladesh is a youth-driven initiative led by Preneur Lab, designed to enhance civic engagement, leadership development, and policy advocacy among young people in Bangladesh. The program provides a structured platform for young citizens to deepen their understanding of governance, economic policies, and legal frameworks, while equipping them with essential skills to influence policy reforms. The initiative is built around three major pillars – Regional Liberal Workshops, Public Awareness Campaigns, and Youth Manifesto Development – which collectively foster an ecosystem where young leaders can actively participate in shaping governance policies and promoting sustainable.
The Reform Bangladesh Workshop on Policy Advocacy in Rajshahi marked the first of three planned regional workshops under this initiative. This in-person workshop was held on February 25, 2025 at Rajshahi. It brought together over 50 youth leaders from the region, specifically students of the University of Rajshahi and Varendra University, representing various academic disciplines.The event aimed to equip these participants with practical advocacy skills and leadership strategies for effective policy engagement, laying a strong foundation for their active involvement in governance reform efforts.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in a series of interactive sessions led by expert facilitators on crucial topics of governance and advocacy. The first session highlighted youth-led innovation and the role of young leaders in driving governance reforms, emphasizing how innovation and leadership can shape better policies. The second session focused on content creation for policy advocacy, exploring digital strategies to engage the public and craft impactful messaging around policy issues. The final session addressed governance and policy reforms for sustainable growth, underscoring civic responsibility and policy-driven strategies for national development. These discussions not only provided deep insights into democratic governance and advocacy techniques but also energized participants to envision themselves as catalysts for change in their communities.
The session began with discussions on youth-led innovation and governance reforms, led by Md. Rihanuzzman Sohan, Lecturer at Varendra University. He emphasized the role of young leaders in shaping governance policies through active participation and advocacy. The importance of content creation for policy engagement was highlighted by Asadur Rahman, Deputy Station Manager at Radio Padma 99.2 FM, who provided insights into using digital platforms for impactful messaging and public awareness. Additionally, Md. Mahmud Hasan, Founder of Green Run, explored governance and policy reforms for sustainable growth, urging participants to consider civic responsibility and long-term policy-driven strategies to address national challenges.
Beyond theoretical discussions, the workshop provided hands-on experience in policy engagement, digital activism, and leadership development. Participants left with a stronger ability to navigate policy discussions, articulate their ideas effectively, and engage stakeholders in advocacy efforts. The event also created meaningful networking opportunities, connecting youth leaders with governance experts and fellow advocates, fostering a supportive community for future collaborations.
As this movement gains momentum, Bangladeshi youth are proving their readiness to take charge of policy reform and governance. With knowledge, mentorship, and a platform to voice their ideas, they are actively shaping a more inclusive and accountable future for Bangladesh.
