United News of Bangladesh

Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam said the government is committed to building a modern, technology-driven and knowledge-based Bangladesh in line with the ‘Bangladesh First’ policy. “The government is working towards creating 1 million jobs in the digital sector over the next five years and transforming Bangladesh into a regional hub for information technology and artificial intelligence (AI),” he said, while addressing the ‘Bangladesh TechConnect 2026’ conference in the city. The Posts and Telecommunications Division and Huawei jointly arranged the conference at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre. The Minister stressed the need for reliable, secure, high-speed and affordable digital connectivity throughout the country. To this end, he said it must develop modern telecommunications infrastructure, enhance digital skills, attract investment and encourage local innovation. The minister said the effective use of AI and digital technologies would play an important role in increasing productivity, creating new jobs and accelerating economic growth. At the same time, cybersecurity, personal data privacy and the responsible use of technology must be ensured, he added. Emphasising coordinated efforts by the public and private sectors, the minister said collaboration among the government, local industries and international technology partners could help build an inclusive and competitive digital economy. Jason Wu, Huawei’s president for South Asia, said the company was committed to working with the government and industry partners to develop Bangladesh’s digital infrastructure and expand the use of technology. Joint Secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division Saida Afroz presented the keynote paper at the conference. Three panel discussions were held on ‘Future Technology and Connectivity’, ‘The Role of Technology in Enhancing Industrial Efficiency’ and ‘Artificial Intelligence: Global Trends, Impacts and Bangladesh’s Preparedness’. The discussions focused on the development of 5G and connectivity infrastructure, improving industrial efficiency through technology and Bangladesh’s preparedness for AI adoption. Participants also discussed the commercial potential of 5G, fixed wireless access and enterprise connectivity in sectors such as the readymade garment industry, ports, agriculture and healthcare. The speakers highlighted how cloud computing, automation, AI-based security systems and smart technologies could boost productivity, reduce operating costs and improve public service delivery. More than 500 participants, including government officials, policymakers, regulators, senior corporate executives, technology experts, entrepreneurs, academics and representatives of development partners, attended the conference.