“But we’re not getting those promising engineers due to brain drain,” he said while addressing a seminar on robotic technology at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (Buet) on Tuesday.

'Centre for Robotic Innovation & Development USA (CRID USA)' organised the programme titled: “The Future of Robotics: Challenges and Opportunities for Bangladesh” in association with Buet’s Mechanical Engineering department at the university’s Council Building.

The seminar was also addressed by eminent scientist and former professor of Dhaka University Dr Shamsher Ali and Professor Ashraful Islam of the Mechanical Engineering department and Channel i director Shykh Siraj.

Nasrul Hamid said new technologies will help boost economic development. “New technologies are creating new job opportunities. It can never become a barrier to employment. Rather, technology enhances work efficiency resulting in increased output,” he said.

The state minister said Bangladesh is advancing with increased utilisation of technologies.

He observed that the potentials of robotics are very bright.

Nasrul Hamid said research works should be encouraged at different educational institutions and the government will continue its support for such initiative.

Making a presentation on the topic, president and founder of CRID USA, Mehedi Hasan said it needs financial support for research and training works.

He said it needs government’s policy support for development of robotics and technology. “The private sector should come forward to support initiatives in the research and training,” he said.