Young Economists’ Forum hosted EconProdigy

The Young Economists’ Forum successfully hosted the sixth edition of EconProdigy this year. EconProdigy is the first inter-university policy-making competition in Bangladesh. It is a platform for undergraduate students across different universities of the country to engage in extensive economic discussions, compete with rigorous teams, and develop innovative economic policies.

This year, the competition took on the intense theme of ‘Inflation-Instability-Innovation’, emphasising the urgency for innovative strategies to mitigate ongoing economic concerns. The competition unfolded over three distinguished rounds. The first and second rounds were held at North South University, and the final round was held at Dhaka Regency. In the first round, Beyond The Headlines, teams demonstrated their ability to craft practical solutions to real-world economic issues. The second round, Cross-Talk, challenged contestants to articulate coherent arguments and counterarguments in spirited policy debates. Finally, the Policy Dialogue round showcased the finalists’ innovative policies backed by in-depth research, analysis, and creativity.

Over 250 teams consisting of undergraduate students from different universities and diverse academic backgrounds participated in EconProdigy 6.0. Three standout teams were awarded a prize pool of Tk 250k. The first and second runners-up teams won a prize pool of 80k and Tk 50k, and the winning team won a prize pool of Tk 120k along with a two-night stay at DuSai and exciting gift hampers, recognising their innovative solutions and exemplary economic policies.

EconProdigy 6.0 featured esteemed judges and distinguished guests. Dr. Farzana Munshi, Professor of BRAC University, Dr. S.M. Zulfiqar Ali, Research Director of BIDS, Dr. Fahmida Khatun, Executive Director of CPD, Dr. Ashikur Rahman, Senior Economist of PRI, Ashfaqul Chowdhury, Senior Country Economist of Bangladesh International Growth Centre were present as the grand finale judge. Dr. Atiur Rahman, former governor of Bangladesh Bank, and Dr.  Gour Gobinda Goswami, Pro Vice Chancellor of Uttara University, were present as distinguished guests at the event. The culmination of the competition was followed by the inaugural ceremony of the 13th edition of ‘Equilibrium’, the most acclaimed research-based and academic publication of the Young Economists’ Forum on current social and economic challenges.

Through initiatives like EconProdigy, the Young Economists’ Forum continues to contribute significantly to shaping the country’s future economic policy by providing a platform for young aspiring economists and policymakers to showcase their talents. Moreover, the Young Economists’ Forum remains committed to driving positive change and fostering innovation in economic policy through several more editions of EconProdigy.