RHSTEP’s Aparajeyo Tarunno (UYP) organized a workshop titled **“The Role of the Creative Economy and Artificial Intelligence in Youth Skills Development, Innovation and Employment”** to prepare young people for the evolving job market and promote greater social awareness.

The workshop began with a welcome address by **Program Manager Mohammad Abu Raihan**, who introduced participants to the emerging opportunities within the creative economy and the changing landscape of future employment.

Following the opening session, **Senior Program Officer Aktanin Khayer Tanin** provided an overview of the history of the Industrial Revolution, tracing its evolution from the First Industrial Revolution to the emerging Fifth Industrial Revolution. He highlighted how technological transformation is reshaping education and employment and discussed the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in preparing young people for the future.

The keynote session was conducted by **Dr. Hasan Azad**, who explained the concept and significance of the creative economy. He described the creative economy as an economic system in which creative industries generate income and economic value. He highlighted a wide range of creative industries, including advertising, arts and crafts, graphic design, fashion, film and video production, photography, music, performing arts, publishing, computer games, television, radio, sports, street theatre, Jatra and theatre.

Dr. Hasan Azad emphasized that the creative economy extends beyond arts and culture and creates new opportunities across other economic sectors. He noted that creative industries are increasingly contributing to national development and economic well-being, while businesses, technology and broader industries benefit from their innovative potential.

The session also highlighted the importance of strengthening the creative economy through appropriate government investment, financial support for creative and cultural professionals, and improved access to information and guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs. Providing young entrepreneurs with knowledge about business models, market opportunities and sustainable practices, along with increased financing opportunities for creative-sector startups, can further accelerate the growth of the creative economy. Such initiatives can contribute to employment generation, economic growth and the financial well-being of local communities.

Concluding the workshop, **Project Officer Saima Akter** provided participants with hands-on training on creating a music video using Artificial Intelligence, based on the theme of **climate change**. The practical session enabled participants to explore how AI tools can be applied creatively to develop digital content while addressing important social and environmental issues.

Through this initiative, RHSTEP’s **Aparajeyo Tarunno (UYP)** continues to support young people by building their skills, encouraging innovation and connecting them with emerging opportunities in technology, creativity and the future workforce.