By
Quazi M. Ahmed
Founder & President, BOND
For decades, Bangladesh has witnessed a steady outflow of its brightest minds doctors, engineers, researchers, entrepreneurs seeking education, opportunity, and prosperity abroad. While this phenomenon of brain drain has long been seen as a loss, a deeper look reveals a powerful opportunity: the potential for brain gain.
Around the world, Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs) are making remarkable contributions in their fields. What if this global network could be activated as a force for national development? What if their knowledge, experience, and networks could flow back to Bangladesh not just through remittances, but through ideas, innovation, and institution-building?
A strong brain gain strategy can make that vision a reality.
Start with a New Perspective
The first step in any brain gain strategy is to rethink how we view NRBs. They are not just migrants or money senders. They are ambassadors of knowledge, bearers of global experience, and untapped partners in progress. Treating them with dignity, involving them in national conversations, and inviting them to contribute meaningfully is key to activating their potential.
Create Pathways for Engagement
Most NRBs are willing to give back but they need clear, accessible, and flexible ways to do so. That’s where organizations like BOND play a vital role. By serving as a bridge between NRBs and institutions in Bangladesh, BOND can facilitate connections, collaborations, and contributions.
Opportunities for virtual mentorship, guest lectures, policy advising, investment partnerships, or short-term return programs should be created and widely promoted. The focus should not be on permanent return alone, but on value return enabling NRBs to contribute from wherever they are.
Remove the Friction
Bureaucratic complexity often discourages NRBs from engaging more deeply. To encourage their involvement, the process must be simple, transparent, and efficient. For example, skilled professionals returning to teach or consult should receive fast-track support, recognition of credentials, and institutional cooperation.
Incentives such as fellowships, flexible work arrangements, or public recognition can make a significant difference. When contribution becomes easy, more will step forward.
Work Across Sectors
A brain gain strategy should not be limited to government alone. Private sector companies, universities, think tanks, and NGOs must work together to create a national ecosystem where NRB knowledge is valued and used.
A tech company might invite a Bangladeshi AI expert from abroad to advise its team. A university could co-host research with a Bangladeshi professor based in the US. A startup hub could pair local founders with NRB mentors in Canada or Australia. These cross-border, cross-sector connections can be transformative.
Highlight Success and Build Momentum
Stories inspire action. Highlighting the achievements of NRBs who have returned to contribute or who work remotely to support national development can motivate others to do the same. When people see others like them making a difference, they are more likely to follow.
These stories should be shared widely through articles, social media, video features, and national recognition. Celebrating these role models builds pride and momentum.
Towards a National Brain Gain Policy
To make brain gain sustainable, there must be an institutional commitment. A national framework, co-created with organizations like BOND, can define clear goals, action plans, and measurable outcomes. It can outline areas where NRB involvement is most needed such as healthcare, education, innovation, and policy reform and create formal channels for contribution.
Conclusion: From Brain Drain to Brain Share
Brain gain isn’t just about reversing loss it’s about building lasting partnerships between those abroad and those at home. It’s about transforming migration into a two-way street, where ideas, values, and knowledge flow freely. With the right mindset, systems, and support, Bangladesh can unlock a powerful advantage. Let’s move from brain drain to brain share and together, create a smarter, stronger, and more connected Bangladesh.