BYLC Graduation 2026: 521 Young Leaders Urged to Take Responsibility for Nation-Building

Bangladesh Youth Leadership Center held its Graduation Ceremony 2026 Tuesday, bringing together 521 young graduates from diverse backgrounds.

The ceremony was held at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh Complex in the capital.

Speakers emphasized that leadership is not merely about holding positions or exercising power. True leadership is reflected in standing beside people, taking responsibility during crisis, respecting differences of opinion and contributing to positive social change.

Planning State Minister Jonaid Abdur Rahim Saki and Ambassador of the Netherlands to Bangladesh Joris van Bommel addressed the event as special guests. Habibullah Tamim of BYLC delivered welcome remarks, while Malia Gias moderated.

Young people must step forward

Planning State Minister Jonaid Abdur Rahim Saki said leadership develops through various processes, but it is essential to first determine what kind of leadership society needs.

He called on young people to come forward to promote equality, human dignity and justice.

True leadership emerges when young people step forward for welfare of society during moments of crisis, he said, stressing the need for young people to have a clear understanding of the kind of society they want to build.

Leadership that prioritizes broader interests of people and respects rights of every individual can help society move forward, he said.

Saki also stressed greater public participation in strengthening democratic institutions, saying people with different views must maintain mutual respect and tolerance.

Young people cannot focus only on their own future; they must also think about future of society and the state, he said, adding there is no substitute for responsible youth leadership in building a humane and accountable society.

Young people face major challenges: Ejaz Ahmad

BYLC Founder and Executive Chairman Ejaz Ahmad said young people today face major challenges, including climate change, career development, discipline, artificial intelligence and pressing global issues.

He underscored importance of climate awareness, skill development and personal discipline in preparing young people for future.

Referring to artificial intelligence, Ahmad said the technology is rapidly transforming lives and workplaces. Alongside learning to use AI, he stressed need to ensure its responsible use.

He also called for collective action despite differences over global issues.

"Building the country is not responsibility of one individual alone. We must move forward together," he said.

Applying training in real life is what matters

Speaking as chief guest, Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moin Khan shared reflections from his academic and political life.

He said leadership training is important, but putting knowledge, skills and values gained through such training into practice is even more important.

He urged young people to use their skills for welfare of people and called on them to demonstrate love for country and strong sense of responsibility toward its citizens.

The ultimate purpose of leadership should be welfare of country and its people, he said.

BYLC brings young people from diverse backgrounds together

Speakers highlighted BYLC's role in creating a common platform for students from schools, colleges and madrasas.

Such programmes help strengthen mutual understanding among young people from different educational and social backgrounds.

Leadership development, they noted, should not focus exclusively on those who have achieved success. Young people who have experienced failure should also be included and given opportunities.

Through collective initiatives involving education, environment, climate issues and support for disadvantaged students, young people can play a meaningful role in bringing about positive change, speakers said.

Dutch Ambassador Joris van Bommel also underscored importance of youth leadership development, emphasizing social responsibility and cooperation.

The ceremony formally marked completion of leadership development journey of 521 young graduates, celebrating their transition from training to greater responsibility in their communities and country.