United News of Bangladesh

Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh in Geneva Nahida Sobhan has called upon development partners to intensify efforts to mobilise investment to close the digital infrastructure gap, strengthen cybersecurity, counter misinformation and disinformation. She also called upon the development partners to address digital literacy, challenges including the gender digital divide, and support AI upskilling for the youth workforce in preparation for the future of work. The envoy highlighted Bangladesh Government’s initiatives to bridge the digital divide, strengthen public digital infrastructure, and expand financial inclusion during a roundtable discussion held at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Headquarters, said the Bangladesh Mission in Geneva on Tuesday. The roundtable was organised by ITU in participation with Ambassadors from Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, European Union, Gambia, Italy and Mexico to observe the 3rd UN Virtual Worlds Day. During the discussion, Ambassador Nahida  stated that the Government remains committed to advancing inclusive digital transformation and expanding access to technology-driven services for all, as reflected in its manifesto. Emphasising the growing impact of AI and emerging technologies on societies, the Ambassador highlighted the need to develop legal and governance frameworks for AI platforms, with focus on human rights, AI safety and security, prevention of the weaponization of AI, democratisation of AI, and enhanced international development cooperation.

About 100 million rural people in Bangladesh are going to get high-speed internet access by the end of 2020.

Despite the government’s pro-digital approach, 54 percent rural households in Bangladesh do not have access to internet, a new study shows, as experts fear the ‘digital divide’ could hinder e-governance progress.