Author: Fatema Tabassum Dipti – Bangladesh – PROMPT! Cohort #1
In the 21st century, no nation can progress without embracing engineering and technology. For Bangladesh, a country small in size but strong in geographical position, engineering has become the backbone of its transformation toward a “Digital Bangladesh.” From modern infrastructure to energy solutions, engineers are shaping the nation’s future. Although Bangladesh still faces many challenges, its youth and technological advancements provide hope for building a sustainable and modern state.
The Role of Engineers in Building Digital Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s journey toward modernization has been accelerated by the efforts of skilled engineers. Projects such as the Metro Rail, Padma Bridge, Jamuna Bridge, Rampal Power Plant, Dhaka Elevated Expressway, and Karnaphuli Tunnel represent milestones of engineering excellence. These structures not only solve immediate transportation and energy needs but also symbolize Bangladesh’s entry into the era of high-tech development.
For example, the Padma Bridge has not only connected the southern part of Bangladesh with the capital but has also boosted trade, communication, and economic activity. Similarly, the Metro Rail has reduced traffic congestion in Dhaka and shown how engineering can solve long-standing social problems. These achievements demonstrate that Bangladesh is capable of implementing world-class projects through its engineers.
Students: The Future Engineers
The future of Bangladesh lies in the hands of today’s students. With proper education, training, and access to technology, they can become the engineers and innovators who will solve the country’s pressing problems. Across schools and universities, young people are showing interest in robotics, renewable energy, software development, and artificial intelligence. This enthusiasm is a sign that Bangladesh is preparing a generation that can compete globally.
Challenges to Becoming a Fully Modern State
Despite remarkable progress, Bangladesh is still far behind in becoming a fully modern state. Unlike the United States, China, or Russia, which solve small problems systematically before tackling larger issues, Bangladesh often struggles with numerous unresolved minor problems. One of the most critical among them is load-shedding.
Frequent power outages disrupt education, industry, healthcare, and daily life. Factories stop production, hospitals face difficulties, and students cannot study properly. Without sufficient and reliable electricity, Bangladesh cannot achieve sustainable development. Thus, solving the energy crisis is the first step toward building a modern nation.
Load-Shedding: The Biggest Obstacle
At present, load-shedding has become one of Bangladesh’s largest problems. Although several power plants have been built, electricity production is still not enough to meet the growing demand of industries and households. The over-dependence on fossil fuels also makes the energy sector unsustainable and harmful to the environment.
This crisis does not only affect ordinary citizens but also slows down the entire economy. Small businesses, digital services, and agricultural operations suffer heavily. In order to achieve the dream of a Digital Bangladesh, this problem must be solved immediately.
Solar Power: A Practical Solution
As a riverine country, Bangladesh has vast areas covered by rivers and open water. These regions can be utilized to set up solar power plants on pillars, ensuring that residential and agricultural lands are not blocked. By using solar plates or panels on unused water surfaces or open areas, Bangladesh can generate sufficient electricity without harming the environment.
Solar power has several advantages:
It is renewable and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
It is environmentally friendly, lowering carbon emissions.
It is cost-effective in the long run, as maintenance costs are low.
It can be deployed in rural areas, providing electricity to remote communities.
Countries like India, China, and Japan have already started using large-scale solar farms, and Bangladesh can learn from their models. If properly implemented, solar energy could solve the problem of load-shedding and make Bangladesh self-reliant in energy.
To modernize rapidly, Bangladesh must adopt strategies from technologically advanced nations. For instance:
Japan has invested heavily in disaster-resilient infrastructure.
China has expanded renewable energy projects to reduce pollution.
The United States has promoted innovation through research and development.
By studying these models and adapting them to local needs, Bangladesh can overcome its challenges.
Engineering is the driving force that will shape Bangladesh’s future. From iconic structures like the Padma Bridge to modern innovations in renewable energy, engineers have already proven their importance. Yet, challenges like load-shedding remind us that more work needs to be done. By adopting renewable solutions such as solar power, investing in education, and learning from other nations, Bangladesh can achieve its dream of becoming a fully modern and sustainable Digital Bangladesh.
The journey may be long, but with determination, innovation, and the passion of today’s youth, Bangladesh is destined to shine as a model for developing countries worldwide.
