Dr. Mahtab Hossain Mazed

Today Sunday is World Creativity and Innovation Day 2024Since 2018, the United Nations has been celebrating World Creativity and Innovation Day every year on April 21 to raise awareness about the role of creativity and innovation in all aspects of human development.

> History of World Creativity and Innovation Day:

World Creativity and Innovation Day was established on 25 May 2001 in Toronto, Canada. The founder of the day was Canadian Marcy Segal. Segal studied creativity at the International Center for Creativity in 1977.

The United Nations has decided on 27 April 2017 to observe World Creativity and Innovation Day on 21 April.

When the headline 'Canada in Creativity Crisis' appeared in the National Post, he decided to celebrate World Creativity and Innovation Day. So the United Nations has designated 21 April as World Creativity and Innovation Day to raise awareness of the role of creativity and innovation in all areas of human development.

> Bangladesh's position in creativity and innovation:

People have some talents of their own. Some write books, some draw pictures, some discover new things in research and become memorable. People remember them with reverence from age to age. Using their creativity makes our daily life easier. Inspired by the creations of the famous, many dream of inventing something new. This is how new things are created, new discoveries are made by the world.

In developed countries, they spend a large part of the national budget on research. The government helps other organizations with equipment needed in various laboratories, modernization of university labs. Researchers and inventors are inspired and give importance to creativity. As a result, they were able to show the world a very good invention. Comparatively, Bangladesh is quite behind in research and innovation.

There is lack of government sponsorship in research work in our country. Lack of facilities has created reluctance in research. Many invent something new and move away from it without getting proper evaluation in a limited job profession. Due to these adversities, negative thinking is being created in the creative force.

We have to solve these problems very soon and utilize the creativity of the people of our country, and increase government financial support in science education and research. At the same time students should be encouraged to research and innovate.

> The position of Bangladesh in creativity :-

Almighty Allah has given every human being the ability to achieve something new. It's called creativity. This talent is latent in almost everyone. It has to be given the opportunity to develop. In our society, the most common thing in the country is not allowing this creativity to be expressed. Our guardians i.e. parents and even teachers stand in the way. They think that if the children are involved in creative activities such as writing, reading, doing educational plays, painting, reciting, acting, etc., their education will suffer greatly. As a result, they will fail to fulfill their parents' desired dreams and will not be able to build their own future. A slum is everywhere. They are constantly trying to fulfill their business interests and political interests. That is why they constantly try to misguide the youth. Their job is to constantly attract drugs, muscle power, corruption, influence etc. They are pushing the future generation towards destruction by destroying their intellectual thinking and bringing the society and the country to the end of destruction. But that future generation is the leader or soul of the country. If the future generation is destroyed, the country is also bound to be destroyed.

And self-centeredness and selfishness in the form of brutality has brought the society to the verge of degradation. What can be a greater refuge than creativity to shake this sleepy society a little, to wake up the human mind, to put a fire in its chest, to understand and understand the absolute truth in life by diving deep into the depth of happiness-sadness, tears-laughter? To speak to one's mind, to nurture emotions, love and dreams, creative works are calmness and dependence! Creative people are creators and visionaries. They dream and scientists make it a reality. Therefore, it will not be an exaggeration or overstatement to say that the creativity of creative people is the motto of society and state formation. Creativity has immense fascination and a different feeling of being immersed in love is an enchanting force. Through creativity (creative works) people reach countless thirsty people's hearts and enliven people's hearts through it. According to the writer Abul Fazal, 'The pursuit of humanity or humanity is culture and only this pursuit can make life beautiful and healthy.

The practice of sick culture, Facebook, ugly temptations, mental instability, militancy, murder, drug addiction, alcohol, gambling and political immorality among the current youth of the country are depressing the future generation. There is also the blatant invasion of Western subculture. In order to liberate the future generations from these things, there is no substitute for creativity to engage them in healthy cultural practices. In addition to educating the future generation, in the spirit of patriotism and liberation war, the motivators should stand by the helpless and needy in the country's hardships, build libraries in every neighborhood, organize various educational and awareness dramas, make themselves proficient in pure pronunciation, presentation and speechIf we involve the future generation in creative activities like organizing cultural programs on national special days, they will not get a chance to indulge in vices. Build yourself as a complete person and become an asset of the country and nation and not an enemy.

Therefore, in addition to compliance, the teacher should also play a strong role in this regard. In school or college students spend more time with teachers. On that occasion a sincere and hearty relationship developed between the two which is sweet. In fact, parents and teachers form a circular kinship where everyone is equally important. In fact, parents and teachers can inspire their future generations to do creative work and advance the country and nation to the pinnacle of development. If you look at the history of the world, it can be seen that the nation that is more advanced in creativity is the nation that is at the peak of development. America, Russia, England, Japan, France and China - we look at them as developed nations at the extremes of creativity. Even looking at ancient civilizations like Greece, Egypt, Persia etc. we can understand this truth.

Needless to say about the glorious era of Muslim civilization. Why am I talking about it or not? Moor, Abbasiyya, Ottomans leave their words, how? They all excelled in creativity. There is no touch of creativity in the outdated teaching in schools, colleges and universities. The syllabus is creative but there is no creativity. In fact, creativity means bringing out the latent talent within everyone and harnessing it to direct the current or future generations towards the light - so that they can dispel the darkness and move forward on the path of fulfilling their dreams with the torch of light. No more time. There is still a long way to go. We have to protect the future generation from all evils and put the pen of creativity in everyone's hands. Everyone should be energized by the mantra of creativity. If one proceeds with his creation, all evil deeds will be removed. The country will move forward. Bangladesh's development will be possible only by pushing the youth energy and future generation towards creativity. This energy with a lot of potential should be encouraged and inspired in creative work. It should even be included in their syllabus. One hundred marks should be allocated for creative work and additional teachers should be trained if necessary. Therefore, the light of creativity should be spread among the half-educated and uneducated youth by creating suitable training centers among them. Only then will the nefarious circles be forced to close all doors to their efforts. The tide of development that is flowing in the country today must be maintained and the country will move forward by encouraging the creative activities and guiding the future generations in the mantra of creativity.

> Location of innovation in Bangladesh

According to scientists, about 13.5 billion years ago, the Big Bang created energy, matter, time and space. About 380 million years ago, a large and complex structure called life began to form on a planet called Earth.
About 70,000 years ago, the intellectual revolution began to turn the wheel of history. The agricultural revolution that started about 12/13 thousand years ago accelerated this pace.

And the scientific revolution that started just 500 years ago may end current history and usher in something completely different in the future.

The discovery of fire and the ability to keep fire under control are one of the main roles behind the human being's top position in the animal world or the living world. The use of fire created a huge gap between humans and other animals. Because almost all other creatures depend on their strength. Therefore, the invention of fire was the first expression of man's inventive capacity through control.

Since the beginning of mankind, the development or transition of civilization has been based on the development and progress of science and technology. Therefore, it can be said that the history of the progress of new discoveries and innovations in knowledge, science and technology is the history of civilization development. Technology has improved step by step in life, livelihood and progress through the application of innovative knowledge of human genius; Human civilization has developed based on this invention. Accordingly, the question comes - what is innovation? World famous scientists, economists and social analysts have given ideas about innovation in different ways.

According to economist Joseph Schumpeter, innovation is creative destruction, which constantly revolutionizes economic structures from within and constantly destroys the old to create something new.

According to management consultant Peter Drucker, innovation is the defining tool of entrepreneurship. Which creates wealth with a new capacity for wealth creation.

According to Professor Clayton Christensen, innovation is not just a matter of new technology, it is a process that combines different innovations to create products or services that are accepted by customers in the market.

According to physicist Albert Einstein, the true mark of intelligence is not knowledge, but imagination. Innovation is the result of applying imagination to solve problems and create new possibilities.

According to economist Carlotta Perez, innovation is not just a matter of technology, it is a social process in which institutions, infrastructure and the way society organizes itself to solve its problems and create a better future. These definitions emphasize the dynamic and changing nature of innovation in different fields by providing insights from different perspectives.

From the concept described, it is clear that innovation is the process of introducing something new or significantly improving an existing idea, product or process. Although the three concepts of innovation, creation and discovery are generally regarded as innovation, there are many differences in actual meaning. However, all three concepts play an important role in socio-economic development. Analyzing in isolation, it is clear that innovation ensures progress by improving efficiency, creating new markets and improving existing products or services.

On the other hand, creation or creating solves a completely new idea or problem. Invention expands the human knowledge base and provides the basis for both invention and creation. Broadly speaking, the elements in synergistic combination with each other lead to overall development. Innovation in this process often acts as a bridge between creation and discovery and connects ideas with practical applications for social and economic progress.

Innovation is a multifaceted concept. The field contributes to the overall development of different types of innovation. Innovations can therefore be classified based on different criteria. But generally inventions can be divided into 4 categories.

(1) Product innovation: which is creating or improving new products and services. Including adding new features and presenting it as a complete offering.

(2) Process or process innovation: which focuses on improving the methods and systems used in producing goods and delivering services. It aims to increase efficiency, reduce production costs and increase productivity.

(3) Organizational innovation: It refers to changes in organizational structure, management practices and business models to improve the overall effectiveness and adaptability of the organization concerned.

(4) Marketing innovation: It is important for the marketer to introduce new distribution and marketing methods based on defined customers and to encourage the adoption of new market and marketing strategies by changing the current positioning and marketing of the product or service. The specific mix may vary depending on the industry, economic context and societal needs. Adopting a holistic approach to innovation will make development not only faster but also sustainable and integrated.

Innovation and innovative activities and methods play an important role in advancing social change and development by introducing new ideas, technologies and solutions to problems. Encourages creativity and enhances ability to face challenges. Above all, innovative thinking contributes to positive transformation in various fields such as education, healthcare and sustainable development. Innovation contributes to increasing productivity, improving quality of life and empowering all communities, thereby achieving long-term social progress.

The country's 8th Five Year Plan has set targets for employment of the unemployed youth. The question is which process or method will be employed for billions of unemployed? According to statistics, every year about 2.2 million youths gain the ability to enter the workforce. But most of them are not employed. As a result, huge unemployment is continuously created. In order to reduce unemployment in such a situation, the government must give maximum importance to the creation of entrepreneurship in a planned manner. Innovation can play a key role in entrepreneurial growth and development.

Factors that can be taken into account in the importance of innovation for entrepreneurship development include-

* Innovation gives entrepreneurs a competitive advantage, distinguishing their products or services as superior in the market.

* Innovative strategies and approaches enable entrepreneurs to stay relevant in dynamic markets, changing customer needs and preferences.

* Entrepreneurs play a very important role in finding solutions to problems and overcoming all obstacles to face any challenge and innovation.

* Use of innovation and innovative process technology to achieve operational efficiency, reduce production costs and improve overall business performance.

* Innovation opens doors to new business opportunities, helps entrepreneurs explore new markets and create their own streams of markets.

* In a rapidly evolving business landscape, innovation helps entrepreneurs adapt to changing conditions and embrace emerging trends.

* Innovation allows entrepreneurs to offer products or services that better meet customer expectations, thereby increasing satisfaction and loyalty.

* Innovation can reduce the risk of entrepreneurs facing obsolete products or business stagnation through product and service diversification and continuous development.

* Innovation contributes to building a strong brand image. Because, customers often become dependent and loyal to new innovative products.

* Innovation inspires the creativity of promising top talent, and these talented employees are eager to work for companies that are at the forefront of industry advancements.

It goes without saying that innovation for economic development plays one of the major roles in the progress and prosperity of the society and the state, which include-

(a) Innovation is a key driver of economic growth, encouraging the development of new industries and contributing to aggregate expansion.

(b) Innovative technology and increases productivity, leading to more efficient use of resources and increased economic output.

(c) Innovation often creates new businesses and industries, creating employment opportunities and reducing unemployment rates.

(d) An economy that prioritizes innovation is more likely to be globally competitive, attracting investment and business partners.

(e) Development of innovation sustainable practices, ensuring optimum use of resources

(f) An innovative environment encourages entrepreneurship, fosters the growth of startups and small businesses, which contribute significantly to economic development.

(g) Improving the quality of life Innovations in healthcare, education and technology can improve the overall quality of life of citizens and contribute to social welfare.

(h) Innovating in infrastructure development, such as transport and communication systems, which are crucial for economic development.

(j) New and innovative products or services can generate revenue streams, contribute to government revenue through collection of taxes and other taxes.

(j) Innovative economies with change establish resilience and sustainability in the long run, better equipped to adapt to global economic changes and challenges.

Innovation plays an important role in the socio-economic activities of a developing country like Bangladesh as the main driver of economic growth. In developing economies, innovation policies can contribute to productivity growth and economic expansion by developing technology and industry. Innovation and innovation activities encourage entrepreneurship in industries, startup development and mass employment generation as well as industry diversification; which reduces dependence on the common sector. This diversification helps to maintain the stability of the local economy by countering the external volatility of the economy. Innovation is helpful in the sustainable socio-economic development of any country by providing practical guidance in solving environmental challenges and environmental friendly technologies.

In addition, innovation and innovation activities can contribute significantly to improving the quality of life of the country's citizens, attracting foreign investment, developing and encouraging talent, and adapting to technological change. Countries that have prioritized innovation in the rapidly changing global environment have been successful in the global context and have secured a strong economic position. Overall, it can be said that a national innovation policy is very important to establish Bangladesh as a dynamic and forward-thinking nation.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) publishes the Global Innovation Index report every year. In determining the position of a country, a total of seven indicators including public and private institutions, human resources and research, infrastructure, sophisticated markets and business, knowledge and technology, and creativity are evaluated. Bangladesh has fallen three steps in the Global Innovation Index (GII) in 2023. In 2022, Bangladesh was ranked 102 out of 132 countries in the GII index. This year too, among 132 countries, it fell three steps behind to the 105th position. Bangladesh ranks behind India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan among Asian countries. But it is slightly ahead of Nepal. Which is worrying.

There is no alternative but to expand innovation and innovative thinking for national development and prosperityAreas that need to be addressed in formulating a model innovation policy for Bangladesh, considering support for research and development and application of innovative problem solving by encouraging a culture of innovation; Notable among them are-

(1) State should increase investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education to develop skilled manpower by reforming the overall education system to emphasize creativity, critical thinking and problem solving skills in education and skill development.

(2) Allocating funds and incentives to increase investment in research and development. Innovation activities Encouraging collaboration between academia, research institutes and the private sector.

(3) Creating and upgrading infrastructure that supports innovation, including research labs, technology parks and incubators, and ensuring nationwide access to high-speed Internet and advanced technology.

(4) Strengthen IPR laws to protect inventors and their creations and encourage individuals and businesses to invest and share their innovative ideas without fear.

(5) To create a favorable environment for startups and entrepreneurs, as well as to encourage the development of innovative enterprises, the state should provide financial support, tax incentives and mentorship programs to develop the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

(6) Introduce policies aimed at creating markets for innovative products and services, where innovative solutions are prioritized in public procurement processes.

(7) Undertaking joint research projects in cooperation with international organizations to exchange innovative knowledge and encouraging participation in global innovation networks.

(8) Create a regulatory framework that balances safety and innovation by mainstreaming regulatory processes to reduce barriers to innovators.

(9) Exploring ways of innovation to increase productivity and global competitiveness in traditional sectors such as agriculture and textiles.

(10) Encouraging corporate culture by providing tax incentives and rewards for companies investing in research and development and implementing innovative practices.

(11) Ensuring information privacy and cyber security by formulating and properly implementing policies on information privacy and cyber security, increasing trust in the digital environment and ensuring the use of innovative technologies.

(12) Creating public awareness and engaging the public through educational programs about the importance of innovation in economic growth and improving living standards.

It is important and important to consider the public expectation that our state policy makers will increase their innovative focus to reach the desired goals that continue to move forward as a nation. Because innovation has been a driving force shaping the course of human society since the dawn of time. Throughout history innovation has been an important catalyst for social evolution, influencing culture, economy and governance. From primitive tools to cutting-edge technology, every invention has left an indelible mark.

Finally, Bangladesh can create various opportunities for innovation, creativity and economic growth if we can take appropriate steps by identifying intellectual property rights i.e. protection of intellectual property. In building a knowledge-based society, protection of intellectual property will promote indigenous inventors and innovations. Since the key to the prosperity of the 21st century is in the hands of talented people, we have to make Bangladesh a talented nation through planned knowledge practice, training, research through awareness raising among the peopleTherefore, Bangladesh of tomorrow will be developed by utilizing the talent and knowledge of the youth.

The writer is a, organizer, columnist and researcher Founder and Chairman, Jatiya Rogi Kallyan Society.