Published: 06:52 AM, 27 September 2026
Young People Are Being Drifted Away from Voluntary Activities in Bangladesh
S M M Musabbir Uddin
In the 2000s we have seen frequent voluntary activity in schools, colleges, universities, societies and more. We have also seen the voluntary organizations activities for example Scouts, BNCC, Red Crescent, Girls Guide and Various clubs in educational institutions. In 2010s when the social media is introduced. The impact was very good and responses were very high because of social media. This kind activities not also give fame in Bangladesh. It also gives the great response in foreign countries. Young people are engaged in this kind of activities. We have also seen that those who does voluntary activities, gets student visa very easily and accepted the application to the foreign universities including Oxford, Harvard whatever name it. Unfortunately, young people are not being interested to be participate in voluntary activities or any extra curriculum activities. It is very much alarming in case of Bangladesh. We have seen heroic scene from the volunteer’s organization during COVID 19, Flood in 2022, Flood in 2024 etc. We have also seen the resignation from a vital position of a renowned organization. There are many reason behind the scene.
First one is the academic and career pressure. Students are expected to achieve high grades, prepare for competitive university and medical admission and develop professional skills for future employment. Many people believe that spending time on volunteer work will not directly improve their career prospects. As a result, they often choose private coaching, online courses and boring activities instead of community service.
Second one is the low socio-economic background is one of the major factors in case of Bangladesh. Many people came from the low- or middle-income families where they are expected to support their household financially. So, young people don’t waste time on voluntary activities, they instead do the part-time jobs.
The increasing use of smart phones and social media has also changed how young people spend their time. Many hours are devoted to scrolling through social media, watching videos or playing online games. Although digital platform can promote social causes, they can also reduce face to face development and community engagement.
Another reason is the lack of recognition and structured opportunities. Many young people feel that their volunteer efforts are not appreciated or rewarded. In some areas, organized volunteer programs are limited, making it difficult for interested students to participate regularly.
Parents and society also influence this trend. Some families encourage children to focus only on academic success and stable careers, believing that volunteer work wastes valuable study time. This mindset discourages many students from joining social organizations, even when they have the desire to help others.
Corruption is also one of the reasons that volunteers are not being motivated or disciplined. Qualified one is always lagging behind and those who are not qualified but well known get the vital position. Moreover, the budget for volunteering activities is very low due to corrupted system. That’s why young people can’t engage to the volunteering activities in Bangladesh.
The decline in volunteer participation has several negative effects. Communities lose energetic young leaders who can organize awareness campaigns, environmental projects, and emergency responses. It also limits the personal growth of young people, as volunteerism helps develop leadership, teamwork, communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills that are valuable throughout life.
Despite these challenges, the situation can improve. Educational institutions should encourage community service through volunteer clubs and service-learning programs. Government agencies and non-governmental organizations can create more accessible volunteer opportunities, provide training, and recognize outstanding volunteers through certificates and awards. Social media can also be used more effectively to inspire young people by highlighting successful volunteer stories and real community impact. It is always beneficial for future life and study in aboard. Foreign universities accept the application who engaged with community service.
S M M Musabbir Uddin is a
student of Universal Medical
College, Dhaka.
