Deputy Speaker of Parliament Barrister Kayser Kamal has said young people will play a crucial role in building a Bangladesh founded on the rule of law, transparency, accountability and fundamental human rights.

He made the remarks while addressing the Bangladesh Youth Model United Nations (BYMUN) 2026 conference as chief guest at the LD Hall of the National Parliament on Friday (16 october).

Organised by Future Bangladesh, the two-day conference began on Friday, bringing together around 500 young delegates from more than 200 schools, colleges and universities across all 64 districts.

Kayser Kamal urged young people to look beyond academic achievements such as GPA-5 grades and use their talents and innovative thinking to build an inclusive and progressive society.

The country needs a generation of educated citizens who uphold human values and democratic principles, he said.

Referring to Bangladesh’s history of mass movements, the Deputy Speaker said young people had consistently played a leading role in struggles for social dignity and equal opportunities.

Citing the final fact-finding report by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), he noted that many of those killed during the July-August 2024 mass uprising were young people.

He also expressed concern that Bangladesh had fallen behind in several indicators since 2006, stressing the need for renewed efforts to restore the country’s progress.

Kayser Kamal called on students pursuing higher education abroad to return home and contribute to national development. He also encouraged young people to speak out against corruption and attend parliamentary sessions to understand how policymakers debate issues and make decisions.

Emphasising the importance of constructive disagreement, he said effective leadership required understanding opposing viewpoints, building mutual trust and creating opportunities for meaningful cooperation.

Among others, Prime Minister’s Adviser and PMO Spokesperson Mahdi Amin, Chief Coordinator for Sustainable Development Goals Affairs at the Prime Minister’s Office Professor Dr SM Abdul-Awal, and BRAC University Registrar Dr David Doland addressed the conference.