In Bangladesh, the pursuit of education is a significant milestone for many young individuals. However, the rising costs of living and education have made it increasingly difficult for students to focus solely on their studies without the burden of financial strain. One potential solution lies in the normalization of part-time jobs for students—a move that could bring about numerous benefits for individuals and society as a whole.
Traditionally, part-time work has been viewed with scepticism in Bangladesh. Because of the stress that many families feel about their children's schoolwork, many parents forbid their children from working jobs that could interfere with their studies. This cultural perception can lead to a lack of financial independence for students, perpetuating a cycle of dependency and limiting their exposure to real-world experiences.
Despite these challenges, the need for part-time jobs is evident. With a growing number of private universities and vocational schools, students are looking for ways to manage their finances, pay tuition, and obtain practical experience. Yet, the stigma associated with part-time work often discourages them from pursuing these opportunities.
In August 2024, a significant event unfolded in Bangladesh that showcased the potential of students in community service and public safety. Following a governmental collapse that left many city services in disarray, students organized themselves to clean the city and manage traffic flow in the absence of police. This grassroots initiative not only highlighted the resourcefulness and commitment of the youth but also underscored the potential for students to take on meaningful roles in their communities.
By working together, students effectively tackled littering and organized traffic, alleviating congestion in a country notorious for its traffic jams. This collective effort not only improved their environment, but it also taught them how to be leaders and take care of their community.
Part-time jobs offer students a pathway to financial independence. Earning their own income can alleviate some of the financial burdens on families, allowing students to invest in their education, purchase study materials, and manage personal expenses. This financial autonomy can also foster a sense of responsibility and maturity.
Working part-time helps students acquire valuable skills that are often not taught in classrooms. Time management, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills are just a few competencies that students can develop through work experience. These skills are essential not only for academic success but also for future career prospects.
Exposure to the workplace helps students prepare for the challenges of their future careers.
Understanding workplace dynamics, understanding how to handle professional relationships, and acquiring industry-specific experience can all improve their employability after graduation. In a competitive employment market, such experience can be extremely valuable.
Part-time jobs can offer students significant networking possibilities. Building relationships with co-workers and employers can lead to mentorship, employment references, and future professional opportunities. These relationships can help students find internships and full-time jobs once they complete their education.
The events of August 2024 also highlighted a practical avenue for student employment: traffic management. With persistent traffic issues in urban areas, students could serve as part-time traffic controllers, helping to ease congestion and improve road safety. By offering training and support, local governments could employ students to assist with traffic control, ensuring safer streets while providing students with valuable work experience.
Another sector that provides ample opportunities for students seeking part-time work is the restaurant industry. Working in restaurants, whether as servers, kitchen staff, or in customer service, can teach students valuable interpersonal skills, teamwork, and stress management. The fast-paced environment of a restaurant hones the ability to work under pressure, while dealing with customers improves communication and conflict-resolution skills. Additionally, restaurant jobs often offer flexible hours, making them suitable for students who need to balance work with their academic schedules. These roles can also provide networking opportunities, particularly for students studying business, hospitality, or management, as they build relationships with industry professionals.
To normalize part-time work for students, a cultural shift is essential. Educational institutions, families, and society must collectively recognize the value of part-time employment as an integral part of the learning process.
Schools and universities should create support systems for students who wish to work part-time. This can include flexible scheduling, career services, and workshops focused on work-life balance. Encouraging students to engage in part-time work as a complement to their education can help change perceptions.
Families play a crucial role in shaping attitudes toward part-time work. By fostering open discussions about financial independence and the benefits of work experience, families can empower students to make informed decisions about balancing work and studies.
The government can help with this transition by enacting regulations that promote part-time employment for students. This can include tax reductions for firms who hire students, rules that assure fair wages and working conditions, and public awareness campaigns about the benefits of part-time work.
Normalizing part-time jobs for students in Bangladesh can lead to a more empowered, skilled, and financially independent youth. The events of August 2024 demonstrated the capability of students to contribute significantly to their communities, particularly in areas like traffic management. Similarly, part-time roles in industries such as restaurants can offer students flexible, skill-enhancing opportunities.
Recognising the numerous benefits of part-time work can help students navigate their educational paths more effectively, preparing them for a successful future. Embracing this shift not only enhances individual prospects but also contributes to the overall development of the nation, creating a generation of well-rounded, capable individuals ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
The author is a Final year L.L.B. student at the London College of Legal Studies.
