The present government has made a special commitment to developing the science, information, and communication technology sector. As an integral part of the government’s ‘Vision 2041’, the primary goal of this sector is to promote its growth through research, development, expansion, and successful implementation of information and communication technology. A key objective of the government is to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped with technology suitable for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. To accomplish this, the government is focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-based education and training.
The present government is actively working towards building a ‘Digital Bangladesh’ based on four core pillars: connectivity, skilled human resources, e-government, and the promotion of the ICT industry. As a result of government initiatives, the number of mobile SIM users has reached 180 million, while internet users have reached 130 million. Building upon the foundation of Digital Bangladesh, ‘Smart Bangladesh’ will play a crucial role in realising the vision of a developed Bangladesh by 2041. Extensive preparations have already begun, including formulating the ‘Smart Bangladesh – ICT Master Plan’ with detailed activities. Preparations for the establishment of Smart Bangladesh are already underway, and a programme has been initiated to train 20,000 young women in advanced technology by FY2026 to create IT-savvy citizens.
‘Smart Government’ will provide transparent and easily accessible services to the people, while the ‘Smart Economy’ component will facilitate fast and secure transactions, promote a cashless society, and support start-ups, among other initiatives. The government has been actively fostering the development of start-ups since 2015, resulting in approximately 2,500 start-ups in the country with an investment of around $1 billion. This sector employs approximately two million people directly and indirectly. Ultimately, a ‘smart society’ will uphold the commitment of the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that no one is left behind and guaranteeing the inclusion of all.
Publication Period: June 2023