Graffiti showcase youth’s vision for a prosperous Bangladesh: Salehuddin
An inspiring display of graffiti created by students and young people from across Bangladesh reflects their hopes and dreams for a prosperous and inclusive future, said Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed.
Speaking as the chief guest at the exhibition ‘Paint the Sky, Make It Yours: Future Bangladesh through the Eyes of Youth’ on Saturday (November 23) at Drik Path Bhaban in Dhaka, Salehuddin emphasised the transformative potential of youth creativity.
The event, organised by the World Bank, features artwork from 12 districts, including Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet, Chattogram, and Rangamati.
Celebrating the vision of youth
Salehuddin said, “This inspiring collection of wall art captures the limitless potential of our youth to shape a prosperous Bangladesh. These artworks are a testament to the creativity, imagination, and aspirations of young people across the nation. Their murals convey hope and resilience, a reminder that the future is in capable hands.”
He added, “Graffiti is a powerful medium that communicates what words and even poetry cannot. Through their work, these young artists have given us hope and a vision for an inclusive, prosperous future.”
WB’s commitment to youth empowerment
In his address, Abdullaye Sek, World Bank Country Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, highlighted the impact of youth creativity on the nation’s collective consciousness. “Bangladeshi students and youth have used their creativity and art to express their vision for the country. This exhibition is a platform to listen to their concerns and priorities for the future.”
Sek drew parallels between the power of graffiti in Bangladesh and its historical role in social justice movements globally, such as in Africa and Mexico. “The resilience and determination of Bangladesh’s youth shine through their murals. Their vision speaks of a new Bangladesh with limitless possibilities and inspires us to build a future that matches their aspirations.”
A legacy of partnership
Sek noted the World Bank’s longstanding partnership with Bangladesh, dating back to the country’s independence. Over the past 50 years, the World Bank has contributed more than $44 billion in grants, loans, and financing to support Bangladesh’s development priorities. Currently, Bangladesh hosts the largest International Development Association (IDA) program globally, with $16 billion in funding across 52 active projects.
“We are proud to be a partner in shaping the future of Bangladesh, particularly in empowering its youth. Their powerful murals inspire hope and serve as a call to action for all of us,” Sek said.
A new Bangladesh through art
The exhibition not only celebrates the creativity of Bangladeshi youth but also underscores the importance of investing in their future. As graffiti transforms blank walls into vibrant expressions of possibility, it symbolises the nation’s aspirations for progress, inclusion, and justice.
This initiative reinforces the role of young people in shaping a resilient and prosperous Bangladesh, with their vision serving as a beacon for the journey ahead.
