Bangladesh, a country that gained independence in 1971, has undergone a remarkable journey of socio-economic development over the past few decades. From a nation plagued by extreme poverty and fragility, Bangladesh has made significant strides in reducing poverty, improving education, healthcare, energy access, agriculture, and addressing climate change [1][2][3].
Poverty Reduction and Shared Prosperity
Bangladesh has made exceptional progress in reducing poverty and boosting shared prosperity. Over the last five decades, the country has implemented various initiatives to alleviate poverty and improve the living conditions of its citizens. These efforts have resulted in significant poverty reduction and improved standards of living for many Bangladeshis [2].
Education
Bangladesh has made significant advancements in the education sector. The country has achieved near-universal primary school enrollment, with a net enrollment rate of above 97.6 percent [3]. Moreover, Bangladesh has achieved gender parity in school enrollment, with more girls than boys attending secondary schools [3]. However, there is still a need to improve school-to-work transition and produce higher-skilled professionals to support the country’s aspirations of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2031 [3].
Health, Nutrition, and Population
Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in improving health, nutrition, and population indicators. The country has witnessed a significant increase in assisted deliveries by skilled birth attendants, a decline in total fertility rate, and a reduction in maternal and under-five mortality rates [3]. However, there are still challenges to address, such as the rapid increase in non-communicable diseases and the need to strengthen the health system for quality and equitable healthcare services [3].
Energy
Bangladesh has made significant strides in the energy sector, with access to electricity reaching 100% (grid and off-grid) [3]. The country has also focused on generating clean energy, improving efficiency in generation and transmission, and increasing access to renewable electricity [3]. Ongoing support from the World Bank has contributed to the expansion of renewable energy sources and the improvement of the power sector’s financial health and service quality [3].
Agriculture
Despite challenges such as high population density, decreasing arable land, and frequent natural disasters, Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress in achieving food security and reducing poverty through the agriculture sector [3]. The World Bank has been supporting the government in implementing reforms and investments to enhance crop productivity, diversification, and income potential for rural households [3]. Additionally, the World Bank has provided assistance to improve livestock production, increase grain reserves, and enhance the quality and efficiency of grain storage management [3].
Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management
Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts and natural disasters. The country has implemented measures to build resilience and reduce the adverse effects of climate change [3]. The World Bank has been supporting Bangladesh in strengthening disaster-coping mechanisms, building climate-resilient infrastructure, and promoting afforestation and environmental conservation [3].
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