POSITIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: AN ANALYSIS OF THE GOVERNMENT’S MODEL IN BANGLADESH

Abstract

The world is witnessing a dramatic change in the composition of the population. Industrialized nations are struggling with an "ageing population", while in most developing countries like Bangladesh, the proportion of young people is increasing. In Bangladesh, the youth constitute one-third of the total population and despite the government's efforts, the youth in Bangladesh are falling behind compared to other neighboring countries. Why is this so? The objective of this study is to examine the effectiveness, efficiency and appropriateness of the government's youth development model in Bangladesh using a positive youth development approach. Relying on mixed methods approach, the study utilized primary and secondary data for analysis. The primary data came from questionnaires answered by the 50 participants of Jubo Unnoyon (DYD) Dhaka District Branch. The study found that the DYD program had extremely low scores for 'spirituality and caring'. In addition, the level of achievement or effectiveness did not reach standard levels. Overall, however, the DYD program promotes positive youth development but still needs some adjustments and improvements, especially in the area of caring and connection.