Tech-savvy youth will build a prosperous Bangladesh in the future, and there is no alternative to creating skilled human resources in artificial intelligence, programming, and innovative technology, said Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam on Saturday.
Speaking as chief guest at the award ceremony of the National High School Programming Competition-2026 at the National Science and Technology Complex in Agargaon, the minister described the competition as an effective platform for achieving that goal.
“In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, programming, AI, and innovative technology are key drivers of a country’s development,” Faqir Mahbub Anam said.
He noted that the potential demonstrated by young students through their intellect, creativity, and problem-solving skills is highly promising for Bangladesh’s technology-driven future.
The minister said the world has now entered the age of artificial intelligence, opening global opportunities for talented individuals. To survive in this competitive world, one must prepare with modern technology, knowledge, and innovation.
“There is no alternative to technological skills to succeed in future global competition,” he added.
Referring to the government’s electoral pledges, the minister said the administration is working to create employment for youth, develop technical and language skills, support startups and entrepreneurs, connect to global e-commerce platforms, and ensure merit-based recruitment.
Addressing the young participants, Fakhrul Mahbub Anam said, “Every innovation begins with a small question. So, learn to ask questions, learn to observe, learn to experiment, and gain the courage to innovate without fearing failure.”
A total of 17,839 students registered for this year’s competition across five categories, combining quizzes and programming. After regional rounds, 832 contestants qualified for the national-level final.
Winners were awarded laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The minister also distributed prizes to winners of the Bangladesh Cybersecurity Olympiad 2026.
Acting Secretary of the Information and Communication Technology Division Mohammad Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, Bangladesh Computer Council Executive Director ATM Ziaul Islam, and other senior officials were present at the event.
