Universities Should Build Entrepreneurs, Not Job Seekers: Dr. Yunus

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus delivered a powerful message on Saturday, advocating for universities to cultivate young entrepreneurs instead of simply preparing them to become job seekers. "I have always believed that every human being is born to be an entrepreneur, not a job seeker," he emphasized, asserting that pursuing traditional jobs perpetuates outdated notions of labor, akin to modern-day slavery.

Dr. Yunus made these remarks during a speech at Peking University in Beijing, where he was also conferred an honorary doctorate in a special ceremony.

Encouraging students to think ambitiously and aim to change the world, Dr. Yunus stated, "A job forces you to do what someone else wants. Instead, imagine the impossible and set out to achieve it." He stressed that universities should not only teach students facts but inspire them to envision new possibilities. "Imagination is the greatest power," he declared. "If you can imagine it, it will happen. If you don’t imagine, it will never materialize."

Reflecting on the importance of imagination, he noted that many of the world’s greatest achievements began as ideas in the minds of visionary thinkers. "Everything we take for granted today happened because someone imagined it," he said. "Imagination is more powerful than anything we can physically create."

Dr. Yunus urged students to break free from conventional thinking, suggesting they should pursue ideas that may seem unconventional or even impossible. "Human progress is defined by our ability to make the impossible possible," he affirmed. "That is our duty, and we can achieve it."

Expressing gratitude for being honored by Peking University, which he referred to as his "home," Dr. Yunus praised the institution for its focus on knowledge, wisdom, and innovation. He emphasized the role of such prestigious universities in nurturing a new generation of change-makers who will lead the world toward a brighter future.

In his speech, Dr. Yunus also reflected on his own journey, reminding the audience of the transformative power of imagination. He shared his commitment to realizing the dreams of millions of young people in Bangladesh, particularly the youth who championed a vision of a Bangladesh free from poverty and hunger. This vision aligns with his government’s broader reform agenda, which focuses on building a democratic and resilient Bangladesh centered on entrepreneurship and equal opportunities for all.

Addressing the root causes of poverty, Dr. Yunus argued that people are not born poor; rather, they are impoverished by unjust economic systems that fail to provide equal opportunities. "The poor are made by systems that don’t allow them a fair chance," he explained.

Highlighting the transformative potential of women, Dr. Yunus emphasized that even the poorest women in Bangladesh could become successful entrepreneurs with a small loan. He advocated for empowering women worldwide to harness their entrepreneurial spirit and change their lives for the better.

Turning to the purpose of education, Dr. Yunus articulated a bold vision: "The purpose of education is not just to learn facts but to enable us to use our creative abilities to change the world." He also underscored the need for an eco-friendly economy, stressing the importance of building carbon-free systems to safeguard the planet.

One of the key themes in his address was his "Three-Zero Theory," which aims to eliminate carbon emissions, poverty, and unemployment. He also highlighted his concept of "social business" — a model that solves social problems while generating sustainable profits.

As he wrapped up his visit to China, Dr. Yunus encouraged the students to become "three-zero" individuals who contribute positively to society and the environment. "Don’t add to carbon emissions; instead, work to build a better, sustainable world," he urged.

Dr. Yunus’s visit to China also included significant diplomatic engagements. He attended the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference in Hainan and met with top Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping, Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, and Vice President Han Zheng. These discussions centered around strengthening bilateral ties and addressing global and regional challenges.

Dr. Yunus’s visit concluded on March 29, marking a successful journey that further deepened Bangladesh-China relations and reinforced his commitment to the global pursuit of peace, prosperity, and sustainability.