TANGENTSBy Ihtisham Kabir
2012: Hopes <i>and Resolutions </i>
The Students Speak. Photo: Ihtisham Kabir
On January 3 the year still smells new. The new year promises a new start for many. Wondering what the younger generation wants and expects this year, I visit Dhaka University and talk with students about 2012. What do they want to achieve? What is their hope? This year, some want to help others: “Grow my part-time business and use it to help others with their studies.” “Raise consciousness about Tokais and their human rights.” “Set up an organisation for social work - to help women and children.” “Start a literacy class for the boys who serve food in our dormitory canteen.” “Engage sociology students in working on real-life social problems.” “Stand on my own two feet and become less of a burden on my family.”I was impressed by the determination:
“Whatever is in my control will become better in 2012.” “I lost 5000 Taka on January 1, so the rest of 2012 must be better.” “I studied hard during new year's eve to get a head start for 2012.”
“I plan to become the shining star of my department.” The state of the nation figured prominently:
“I hope for a Bangladesh free of corruption.” This was repeated several times. “In 2012, let jobs be offered to those with merit, not to nephews and nieces.”
“From a restless 2011 to a calm 2012, I hope.”
A new year is a chance to make up for lost time: “I will take more responsibility for myself, especially when it comes to exams.” “I managed two years without studying, but will study extra hard this year.”
“Use the time wisely, not waste it.” There was pursuit of interests:
“In 2011, I got close to Jadipai (a beautiful but remote waterfall in Bandarban) but had to turn back. I will get there in 2012.”
“I want to visit Malaysia for my (part-time) business.” “If I pass the BCS exams, I will certainly visit the Himalayas.”
“I want to learn to bicycle.”
“I don't like to travel, so more Adda for me!” “I want to work towards making abritti (poetry recitation) a mainstream cultural activity.” Other personal growth included:
“Become more proficient in computer and technical skills.” I heard this several times.
“Better English!”
“Complete a managerial course before searching for a job.” “I get angry easily. So in 2012, I will work to control my anger.” “In 2012, I will learn to control my overconfidence and be calm.”
Those graduating this year thought of their career: “I will compete for a government job. But first I will set up an NGO to help children.”
“Take the GREs.” “Pass the BCS and get a government job” These jobs were viewed as very desirable, but there was anxiety about BCS quotas and politicisation of the process.
Finally, my favourite:
“I will make 2012 the best year of my life!” To my readers and young friends who shared dreams with me, I wish you a great new year
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