The Planning Commission has sought clarification on why a government project to provide high-speed internet in universities and medical colleges is relying on 4G technology instead of 5G, despite ongoing national efforts to upgrade to next-generation networks.
The state-owned mobile operator Teletalk Bangladesh Limited has proposed the project to strengthen internet connectivity across public and private universities and medical colleges. However, the Commission has raised concerns over its long-term relevance, given that Bangladesh is already pursuing 5G modernisation initiatives.
Under the project, titled “Ensuring 4G Services in Public and Private Universities and Medical Colleges,” the government plans to spend Tk 456 million to improve network coverage and mobile broadband services in higher education institutions. The project, fully financed by the government, is scheduled to run from January 2025 to December 2027.
The proposal has already been reviewed by the Project Evaluation Committee (PEC) and is awaiting final approval under the Revised Annual Development Programme (RADP) for the 2025–26 fiscal year.
Teletalk argues that 4G connectivity is sufficient for academic purposes, including online classes, e-learning, research, and access to international resources. It says weak connectivity in many institutions continues to disrupt education and limits students’ access to digital learning tools.
According to the proposal, improving 4G infrastructure in campuses would ensure uninterrupted connectivity for students and teachers, support virtual classrooms and webinars, and enhance access to digital libraries and research materials. It also claims the project would promote innovation, improve technical skills, and expand employment opportunities.
Teletalk further argues that improved connectivity would support freelancing, start-ups, e-commerce, e-governance, and digital public services, while contributing to long-term economic growth and foreign investment.
However, the Planning Commission has questioned the rationale behind investing in 4G at a time when a separate Teletalk project is already underway to expand 5G infrastructure.
Officials said the proposal must explain why 5G is not being prioritised for higher education institutions, especially given the country’s digital policy direction and global technology trends.
They also warned that large-scale investment in 4G infrastructure may not align with the National ICT Policy 2018 and could risk becoming outdated in the medium term.
Officials at the Physical Infrastructure Division said universities should not be left behind as countries move towards 5G-based education ecosystems, arguing that new initiatives should prioritise next-generation technology.
Responding to the concerns, Teletalk General Manager (Planning and Implementation) DM Nurul Huda said 4G is adequate for day-to-day academic use.
“Most campus activities can be handled through 4G. It is already a high-speed service. For large-scale data and advanced applications, 5G is more suitable,” he said, adding that 5G-compatible devices and infrastructure are still not widely available in Bangladesh.
He also said Teletalk offers relatively low-cost data packages, and the project would allow students and institutions to access affordable high-speed internet services.
