ABOUT CODE
Connecting Global Expertise with Bangladesh
Executive Summary
The Convention of Diaspora Experts (CODE) is proposed as a national platform to mobilize the knowledge, investment, innovation and global networks of Bangladeshi expatriates. The initiative seeks to support economic growth, employment generation, technology transfer, skills development, entrepreneurship and international partnerships.
CODE is designed to work through existing institutional structures, with the Economic Relations Division (ERD), Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), and National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) identified as potential key government partners, avoiding the creation of new bureaucratic entities.
National Context & Strategic Rationale
Bangladesh has a large and accomplished diaspora community across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Oceania. Many members hold leadership positions in science, engineering, medicine, finance, academia, technology and business. CODE seeks to create a structured mechanism for connecting this expertise with national priorities.
Vision
To build a globally connected, skilled, innovative and prosperous Bangladesh through strategic engagement of diaspora expertise.
Mission
To create a sustainable platform for knowledge exchange, investment facilitation, policy dialogue, innovation and human capital development.
Strategic Objectives
Institutional Framework
CODE proposes engagement with the Economic Relations Division (ERD), Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), and National Skills Development Authority (NSDA) as potential key government partners. Other supporting institutions may include the ICT Division, Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority, universities, chambers of commerce and development partners, subject to formal agreement.
A National Steering Committee, Advisory Council of Diaspora Experts, Technical Working Groups and a Program Management Unit are proposed to oversee implementation.
Priority Sectors
Diaspora Investment Forum
Dedicated sessions will facilitate investment opportunities, public-private partnerships, venture capital engagement, startup financing and SME development.
National Skills Initiative
Diaspora experts will support technical training, mentorship, certification programs, curriculum modernization and workforce readiness.
Innovation & Research Platform
CODE will encourage collaborative research, innovation labs, university partnerships and commercialization of technology.
Policy Advisory Network
A voluntary network of distinguished experts will provide technical recommendations, comparative international insights and sectoral policy support.
Digital Platform
The CODE online platform is intended to support registration, project matching, mentorship, investment opportunities, research collaboration, job placement and issue resolution.
Implementation Roadmap
Progress can be tracked through indicators such as investment commitments, jobs created, mentorship matches, startup support, research collaborations, policy recommendations and training outcomes.