Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam has said technology-driven development will be sustainable only when the country’s young people lead the transformation.
He made the remarks on Saturday while addressing as the chief guest at the RoboFusion 1.0-National Robotics Festival at the campus of the University of Frontier Technology, Bangladesh at Kaliakair, Gazipur.
“Our government’s main goal is not merely to bring technology to people’s doorsteps. It is to create an environment where young people can transform themselves from users of technology into innovators,” the minister said.
He said the government was prioritising artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, research, innovation, startups and skilled human resource development. To build a knowledge-based and technology-driven economy, universities must be developed into centres of research, innovation and collaboration with industry, he added.
“Do not just use technology; innovate. Let new technologies emerge from your laboratories. Let new startups be born from your innovations,” Faqir Mahbub Anam said.
He said the government had drawn up various action plans covering internet access for all, artificial intelligence, robotics, nanotechnology and semiconductors. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has announced a Tk500 crore startup fund, which will create opportunities to turn promising innovations into viable ventures.
“We need young people who will not merely prepare themselves for jobs. They will create new employment opportunities, build technology-based ventures and showcase Bangladesh’s capabilities in the international market,” the minister said.
Responding to questions from journalists after the event, he said necessary action would be taken after reviewing the cases of those who had been allocated space at Kaliakair Hi-Tech Park but had yet to establish industrial facilities there.
He also said investment proposals for the hi-tech park had been received from various countries, including China and countries in Europe.
The minister further said steps would be taken swiftly to construct a permanent campus for the University of Frontier Technology, Bangladesh.
University Vice-Chancellor Prof Md Moktar Ali, Gazipur-1 lawmaker Md Mojibur Rahman, former vice-chancellor Prof Md Abu Yusuf, Gazipur Deputy Commissioner Nurul Karim Bhuiyan and university Syndicate Member MA Mubin Khan attended the event, alongside academics, researchers, industry representatives, teachers, students and technology professionals.
