The NGO Affairs Bureau (NGOAB) has introduced digital systems and promoted the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) to modernise service delivery, improve efficiency, and strengthen governance and accountability in the NGO sector.
An orientation workshop on “NGOAB Online Solution and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for NGOs” was held in Dhaka on Thursday, organised by NGOAB in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and with support from the Australian government under the ISPAT project.
The workshop brought together government officials, development partners, and NGO representatives to explore how digital innovation and AI can enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.
Speaking as chief guest, Director General (In-charge) of NGOAB Md Khalilur Rahman Khan highlighted the critical role of NGOs in Bangladesh’s development.
“AI is at its best not when it replaces human thinking, but when it sharpens it. It should serve as a tool we guide, not a force that guides us,” he said, emphasising the balanced use of technology.
Chairing the session, NGOAB Director KM Mamunuzzaman stressed the urgency of adapting to technological change. “Adopting new technologies is now a necessity but it must be done with accountability and ethical consideration,” he said.
Asif Kashem, senior programme manager at the Australian High Commission, underscored the importance of impact and responsible use. “Technology alone is not sufficient. We need to ensure it benefits people,” he said, highlighting the need for safety and data privacy.
UNDP Senior Governance Specialist Sheela Tasneem Haq emphasised responsible and inclusive AI adoption. “We are the pilot, and AI is the co-pilot,” she noted, stressing the importance of addressing data bias, ethics, and the digital divide.
A key highlight was the live demonstration of the NGOAB Online Solution, which marks a shift from paper-based processes to a fully digital system enabling online registration, application tracking, document submission, and integrated payments.
Another session focused on practical applications of AI for NGOs, including analytics, compliance support, content generation, and chatbot services. Technical experts demonstrated tools for reporting, data analysis, and workflow efficiency, emphasising responsible use and verification.
The workshop concluded with a call for continued collaboration among government, development partners, and civil society to scale up digital innovation while safeguarding rights and promoting trust in emerging technologies.
