BRAC University has joined the Open Forum for AI, a Carnegie Mellon University–led initiative aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability in the development of artificial intelligence.
The forum brings together universities, civil society groups, nonprofits, government bodies and technology companies to shape standards for human-centred AI. Its work focuses on building technical frameworks that define what “open” means in the context of models, data and governance, with an emphasis on public-interest values.
The coalition is developing prototypes, evaluation benchmarks and policy guidance on issues including privacy, inclusive participation and the use of open-source principles across the AI pipeline. It convenes researchers, engineers and community representatives to advance shared research and contribute to global regulatory discussions.
“AI must be shaped by diverse perspectives — not just large technology companies,” said Sayeed Choudhury, the forum’s executive director and director of Carnegie Mellon’s Open Source Programs Office. He said BRAC University’s inclusion broadens the initiative’s international scope.
BRAC University, which has positioned itself as a Global South contributor to AI governance debates, joined the forum after discussions during Vice-Chancellor Syed Ferhat Anwar’s visit to the United Nations in July. The university said it plans to participate in joint research, policy work and technical prototyping.
“AI is transforming the world, and universities must lead with responsibility and purpose,” Professor Anwar said.
The partnership aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including those focused on education, innovation, reduced inequality and institutional resilience.
