EdTech startup Shikho has launched a free Bangla-language artificial intelligence course to expand digital skills, bringing together government and industry as demand rises in the country, where more than half the population is under 25.
The platform said in a press release that the course, “Think AI”, targets students, teachers, freelancers and young professionals, requiring no prior technical background.
Developed with LightCastle Partners and supported by Meta, the course is delivered in four modules covering AI fundamentals, generative tools, responsible use, and upskilling pathways.
The launch at a hotel in Dhaka drew more than 60 stakeholders from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, the private sector, and development partners.
Discussions centred on integrating the course into existing education systems, expanding cross-sector dialogue on AI skills, and building a scalable public-private model for digital skilling.
Shikho Founder and CEO Shahir Chowdhury said artificial intelligence offers a defining opportunity for Bangladesh.
“For the first time in modern history, geography does not have to dictate destiny,” he said.
Prime Minister’s Education Adviser Mahdi Amin said the government is moving to digitise the national curriculum and standardise teaching quality.
“The finest teachers in Dhaka will have the same content available in remote villages, and AI will play an instrumental role in digital classrooms and One Teacher One Tab programmes,” he said.
Prime Minister’s ICT Adviser Rehan Asif Asad said connectivity and data infrastructure are essential to scaling AI nationwide.
“If I do not have connectivity, I have nothing. For AI to work, it is absolutely critical to have the data,” he said.
Meta Director of Public Policy Strategy for Asia-Pacific Beth Ann Lim said AI literacy is key to broader participation in the digital economy.
“We are committed to advancing AI literacy so that people and communities can benefit from new technology,” she said.
A panel discussion moderated by LightCastle Partners CEO Bijon Islam highlighted AI’s potential to narrow the gap with developed economies.
“We are very excited that this will come in as an equaliser,” he said.
The initiative aims to lower barriers to technology education and support Bangladesh’s growing base of freelancers and young digital professionals competing in global markets.
