How to Run an NU Program?

Who is a Nobin Udyokta (NU)?

The Nobin Udyokta (NU) or 'New Entrepreneurs' program was created in order to address the problem of youth unemployment by turning unemployed youth into entrepreneurs. This was formulated on the basis of the position Professor Yunus has taken in the context of the unemployment problems of the second generation members of Grameen bank borrowers' families. He is asking them to believe that "We are not job-seekers, we are job-givers" and act as such by giving up job-seeking, and actively pursuing creation of enterprises. Professor Yunus has been insisting that job-seeking is not a natural desire of a human being. It has been artificially planted inside him. On top of it, it has been presented as if it is the only option for most human beings.

As a result he often is not conscious about any other options. This has been built into the theory of economics, practices of the economy, and into the educational system itself. Professor Yunus argues that the real option for human beings is to become entrepreneurs. Human beings are basically go-getters. Only when he has basic difficulties in becoming entrepreneurs, he looks for a minor.

and less-attractive option of accepting a job in an organization. In order to help the young people fulfill their desire to become entrepreneurs,

Home and Work Place Visits

1. Several Grameen companies joined the program launched by Professor Yunus. Each of them have created a social business fund, separating out a pool of money to be invested in this program in the coming years.
2. Each company created a NU Division within its headquarters with dedicated staff for the division. It is headed by a senior executive.
3. The division has a project selection and evaluation unit, a finance and accounting unit, an MIS unit, a problem shooting unit and a management unit.
4. The Division has field staff based in the rural areas where Grameen bank borrowers live. They are thoroughly trained before they are allowed to start their work.
5. Field staff (NU Promoters) advertise themselves and their NU program.

I am not asking any business person to give up any of their businesses. Nor am I asking them to convert some of their businesses into social business. The idea of "giving up" something creates this shock wave. I am not asking anybody to "give up" anything. All I am saying, if you are worrying about a social problem (while totally engaged in your routine business) I have a message for you, you can make a significant contribution in resolving the problem. If you put your mind seriously into it, you may even open the door to eliminate the problem globally. You can do both: conventional business and social business. It is all upto you to decide whether you want to do a such thing or not. Nobody will raise an accusing finger at you if you do no such thing. But you may feel happy if you do it. I am suggesting a way which may make you a happier person.