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The year 1998 was declared the year of the young. And this year witnessed the humble beginning of a new forum this is not a forum of any political affiliation or a any vested interest. This is also not a Forum of any trade or business, this is a new Forum of the

young.

Unlike any other group, this is essentially a group of dynamic Entrepreneurs and Professionals. Any young Bangladeshi falling into the broad category of Entrepreneurs & professional can join this group. However, this is a small group of dedicated individuals who have certain philosophy and are working with certain objectives In mind.The young people of Bangladesh who save acquired skills and impotency, have very little or almost no saey in the affaire of the t state which effect them all. It has been a practice that the young are

always aporex at and seldom heard. In this age of globalization, trade and democracy, this is a totally unacceptable equatio.The enigmatic editor of the Daily Star, first mooted the idea of such a forum. He, through his indominable spirit, gathered a small group of young Entrepreneurs and professioals from different fields to start this new forum. The first gathering at the British Council auditorium in December, 1997. With the support of the Daily Star, the YEP Forum started its modest activities with caution and conviction.The fantastic facilities of the British Council was an added impetus to the connection in making.

The YEP Forum is a divergent group. The foundation to the association is based on the philosophy that Bangladesh is moving towards the 21st century having learned little from the lessons of the past. The country has no sense of self, binding it together. Much of this may be attributed to selfish politics, a growing sense of indifference and leadership without vision. YEP role should be to look with clear eyes on issues, which affect us all, voice, the concerns of our young group, and initiate change using any and all practical tools available.YEP should always promote those ideals pertinent to National Interest, or at least the Greater Common Interest.

The objectives of the YEP Forum (YEPF) are classified in eight broad categories. The objectives are

(1) Promoting peoples participation in building a modem & humane society.

(2) Promoting accountability in governance, judiciary, public and private enterprises.

(3) Building and projecting the national image.

(4) Raising awareness among people of their rights, and the rights of others.

(5) Promoting alternative thinking & leadership.

(6) Promoting and developing human resources.

(7) Fostering an environment conducive to the development of young people. Promoting awareness on the value of our natural resources and environment.Similar to many other groups this Forum has also an K educated group of professionals as its members. Only difference is that these educated group are enlightened, liperated & dedicated. Although coming in from divergent professions and specializations they are all converging on the philosophy of the Forum. The task of ’ getting so many independent individuals coming in from different 3, professions to work with the same theme, is itself difficult task. But throuah the vear 1998 and through different activities we have fostered a working relationship to carry our dreams ahead. Yep me mber is working voluntary by sparing some time from their professional life. The sprit of sacrificing same time for our society is also on yery high on the priority list. Other wise, this sort of grouping is almost next to impossible.

The YEP Forum is divided in 11 chapters based on different professions. The events of different professions are coordinated and put into action by the relevant chapters. Each chapter is represented in the Core Group of the Forum. The Core Group is responsible for coordination, integration and implementation of different activities as a whole.

The year 1999 is going to be the consolidation of the Forum. The new group will now have a formal chapter and will be duly registered. The democratic practice is upheld in every activities of the group. Our asset is out valued and dedicated members. We have also planned new advertures for the new year keeping in view the approaching millenium. Somu of our plans among others are (a) Daily Star Page by YEPF. (b) Resource Centre, (c) Meet the Young People Face to Face with the Policy Makers, (d) Profession Oriented Session/Workshop. (e) Career Counseling, (f) Inter Profession Discussion, (g) Global Exchange Programme.

The Forum has a long way to go. This is only the beginning. With our conviction towards our goal, the YEP Forum plans to act as the only unique platform for the Young. The Forum is truly dedicated to the ideals set forth by ourselves. As a group of DOERS, we shall turn our plans into realities, we shall overcome the hurdles & open if possible a new vista for the Young of Bangladesh.

(The writter is an Entrepreneur & Co-ordinator of the YEP Forum.)