Introduction
'Build Better World' is generally considered the mission statement of IEB since its inception. In the past it could not undertake planned activities commensurate to this mission. All developing nations developed and established a solid foundation of economy and technology in the 20th century. The next century i.e. the 21st century is expected to be a race of 100 years, very speedy and efficient to achieve targets and goals. IEB in Bangladesh needs a speedy recovery from its failures and set backs, to run a race to cope with the ever-fastest world.

Scenario in Bangladesh
In terms of economy, the last decade of the present century is very important. Like the other parts of the World, economic liberalisation is also taking place in Bangladesh. To cope with the global market scenario, Bangladesh started practising open market economy. In this short period, impact on structural reforms have been experienced. The reforms started in 1991-92 are gradually gaining roots and impact shows satisfactory sign. Steady economic growth rate, expansion of productive employment, trend in reduction in poverty alleviation and increases in export are noticeable. The industrial policy has been made most liberal and conducive to motivate investors. Recovery and steady growth rate indicating enhancement of quality and efficiency are also noticeable.

Inspite of all these, new challenges need solutions at the national level. Resources constraint, balance of payment, shortage of foreign exchange, non-availability of latest technology, shortage of energy, declining social disorder, constitute a threatening scenario. The future Role of IEB must be in commensurate to these situations.

Future Role of Engineers in Bangladesh
In the 21st century, the national priorities will make increasing demand on scientific and engineering community. Engineers should become the mainstream planners and play more significant role in development perspective. In the march towards competitive development, the question of upgrading technological and engineering skills will become important.

Due to liberalisation, access to higher technologies from other parts of the globe would increase. Thus engineers will face a competitive situation of upgrading knowledge and skill.

The process of democratisation is finding its root in Bangladesh. Successive governments are becoming more and more concerned about accountability and sustainable development. This will result in involving people in the development process which will necessitate the engineers to have strong behavioural, social, human relations and communications skills.