State Minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak, presented a 10-point declaration Titled “Dhaka Declaration” during a two-day international conference titled 'DPI and AI for Zero Digital Divide' held at Hotel InterContinental in Dhaka.
The declaration, announced on Tuesday, aims to foster an inclusive and non-discriminatory digital world through the optimal use of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The key points of the Dhaka Declaration 2023 included Equity in Digital Access, Harnessing the Power of DPI and AI, Responsible AI for Global Benefits, Collaboration, Partnership, and Alliances, North-South and South-South-North Triangular Cooperation, Education and Digital Literacy, Inclusion for Frugal Innovation Financial Inclusion, Technological Framework for Responsible AI and Gender Inclusivity
The conference, chaired by ICT State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak and Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni, saw the participation of experts from renowned international organizations such as the World Bank, UNESCO, and UNDP, along with five other technology organizations. Notable attendees included Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, Abdullah Sek, Country Director of the World Bank, and Gabriela Ramos, Assistant Secretary-General of UNESCO.
Education Minister, Dr Dipu Moni, emphasized the transformative impact of technology on education under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She noted the adoption of the Master Plan of Blended Education to transition from traditional to modern education. Additionally, the recently launched 'Noipunyo App' was introduced to enhance the digitalization of education by making learning and assessment more efficient.
She called for global support to create smart education initiatives through AI technology and to eliminate digital discrimination, aligning with sustainable development goals. She expressed the hope that, by 2041, Bangladesh, known as Smart Bangladesh, would contribute to a smarter world.
ICT State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak underlined the significance of the Dhaka Charter on DPI and AI and the exchange of experiences at the international conference. He emphasized the need for a non-discriminatory digital world, powered by DPI and AI, to enhance digital services, making them more accessible and citizen-friendly.
In his closing remarks, Abul Kalam Azad, Former Principal Secretary and Vice-Chair of Smart Bangladesh Network (SBN), shed light on inclusive AI practices, indicating the commitment to progress towards a more inclusive and equitable digital world.
The 'Dhaka Declaration' represents a significant step towards achieving digital equity and fostering responsible AI for global progress, with Bangladesh setting an example for the world in creating a more inclusive digital future.