Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications, Shish Haider Chowdhury, said Bangladesh does not just want to accept AI (artificial intelligence), but is also ready to lead. He said this while addressing the inauguration of the Bangladesh AI Summit and Hackathon held at BRAC University on Thursday.
The Bangladesh Brand Forum organized the Summit in collaboration with Akiz Resource and Mutual Trust Bank PLC and BRAC Business School.
Shish Haider Chowdhury said, “Artificial intelligence is not just a technology – it is the biggest transformative force of time. Today we are standing in the evening of a global change, where we have to decide – will we be just a follower of technology, or its guide? This summit has opened us the horizon of that thought. Bangladesh not only wants to accept AI now, is ready to lead. In the concerted efforts of the government, industry, education and startups, we want to create a path where technology will be the basis of equal opportunity. '
Experts at the summit discussed the use of AI technology, their institutional experience, innovation and the strong potential of AI technology. Besides, the summit was discussed with the potential opportunity to strengthen cooperation between different sectors and to build a strong foundation for creating AI talent in Bangladesh. The main aim of the summit was to assist in the formulation and implementation of an integrated national AI strategy, which includes raising awareness about the possibility of AI, increasing the number of skilled AI professionals and creating a way to create policy direction.
Bangladesh Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (BTRC) Chairman Major General (Retd) Md. Emdad ul Bari. He said, “On this platform, experts from different sectors not only exchanged knowledge, they have opened a new possibility to us. This discussion has taught us to understand that AI is bringing such great opportunities on the one hand, and on the other hand, some of the deep challenges are bringing. But the most important message is that the future of this technology will depend on our decision today. AI is no longer just a future issue, it's part of our lives now. Now when making our decision – will we use AI for everyone, or will it be the means of discrimination? Our work will decide how technology can bring welfare to public life in the proper use of this immense potential. '
Participants at the summit exchanged their experiences in various episodes including four kinot sessions, two panel discussions, five insight sessions. Experts discuss AI inclusion in education, agriculture, health, fintech and industrial sectors. The winners of Bangladesh Innovation Conclave were honored at the summit.
