Asad Islam

In this podcast conversation, I reflect on some of the big questions shaping our world today — from rising inequality and climate change to the limits of GDP as a measure of progress. We talk about why economic growth, on its own, cannot define human wellbeing, and how moral and ethical considerations are often sidelined in global economic systems.

I also share my thoughts on power, fairness, and responsibility — who benefits from the current system, who is left behind, and what it would mean to build an economy that genuinely serves people and the planet.

It’s an open and honest discussion about the kind of future we want and the role economics can (and should) play in getting us there.

You can watch the full conversation here:

https://youtu.be/QjsRgcGUBGU?si=SWJT0az-NejspJGG

I appeared on Channel 24’s “PHA সুরক্ষায় প্রতিদিন (Shurokkhai Protidin)” on December 26, 2024, in a discussion titled “কীভাবে চলছে তৃণমূলের স্বাস্থ্যসেবা?” focusing on the state of primary healthcare in rural Bangladesh.

The conversation explored the challenges of ensuring accessible and quality healthcare at the grassroots level. Despite initiatives such as community clinics, many rural communities still face difficulties accessing timely medical services. I discussed how innovative solutions—such as telehealth platforms and interactive voice response (IVR) systems can strengthen maternal and child health, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based policymaking to achieve sustainable health outcomes.

I appeared on Maasranga Television’s “Ranga Shokal” on December 18, 2024, where I shared my journey from a rural upbringing in Khulna to becoming a development economist and researcher.

In the conversation, I spoke about the importance of education, family support, and perseverance in shaping my academic path. I also discussed my research on microcredit, gender equality, and early childhood education, highlighting how evidence-based approaches can help design effective policies to improve socioeconomic outcomes and promote inclusive development.

On May 22, 2023, I participated in Channel 24’s “Mukhomukhi” talk show, which focused on Bangladesh’s proposed national budget for the 2023–24 fiscal year. The discussion brought together experts from academia and government to analyze the country’s fiscal priorities, development challenges, and broader economic outlook.

The program offered valuable insights into budget formulation, implementation challenges, and opportunities for inclusive economic growth. It also provided a platform to engage the public in evidence-based debate on national policy directions.

On May 16, 2023, I appeared on Jamuna Television’s “Sokaler Bangladesh” to discuss key issues in education policy, sustainable development, and innovation in Bangladesh’s education sector. The program addressed topics such as school enrollment, learning outcomes, educational costs, government subsidies, and strategies to strengthen the education system through effective and inclusive policy measures.

The discussion offered in-depth analysis of the challenges and opportunities in education, highlighting pathways to improve access, learning quality, and confidence among students. The conversation aimed to inform national debates on education reform and socioeconomic development.

In an interview with Voice of America (VOA Bangla), I discussed Bangladesh’s post-pandemic economic recovery, examining how the COVID-19 crisis reshaped livelihoods, labor markets, and the small enterprise sector. The conversation drew on findings from recent research conducted by Monash University in collaboration with partner institutions, highlighting the broader socioeconomic consequences of the pandemic.

I explained how micro and small enterprises, which form the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy, were severely affected by lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, and declining consumer demand. Many of these enterprises—particularly those led by women—faced deep income losses and job insecurity. Yet, the interview also emphasized their remarkable resilience, demonstrated through entrepreneurial adaptation, innovation, and community-driven recovery strategies.

We also discussed the policy lessons emerging from this experience: the need to strengthen social protection systems, expand access to finance, and design gender-inclusive recovery programs that ensure long-term economic resilience. The conversation highlighted the importance of evidence-based policymaking and continued investment in the informal sector as key pathways for sustainable growth in the post-pandemic era.