The Bangladesh AI Summit, organized by Bangladesh Brand Forum in collaboration with BRAC University, took place on May 8, aiming to facilitate the development and implementation of a unified national strategy for Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The conference brought together a diverse group of participants, including local and international business leaders, technology and AI experts, policymakers, and innovators. Expert panelists discussed the application of AI technology, their institutional experiences, innovations, and the significant potential of AI. A press release stated that the summit also explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration across various sectors and establish a robust foundation for cultivating AI talent in Bangladesh.
The event, a flagship initiative of the Bangladesh Innovation Conclave, was sponsored by Akij Resources and Mutual Trust Bank PLC, with support from BRAC Business School.
During the conference, the six winning teams of the AI Hackathon were also awarded.
Mohammad Mujibul Haque, Dean of BRAC Business School, delivered the welcoming remarks at the outset of the conference. He was followed by Shariful Islam, Founder and Managing Director of Bangladesh Brand Forum and Bangladesh Innovation Conclave, who delivered the inaugural speech. He emphasized, "Artificial intelligence is no longer just a matter of technology; it is touching every sector of our lives. From industries to agriculture, healthcare to education, administration to daily life – AI is bringing rapid solutions, new perspectives, and endless possibilities for progress everywhere."
Shish Haider Chowdhury, Secretary of the Information and Communication Technology Division, inaugurated the event as the chief guest. He stated, "Today, we stand at a global turning point where we must decide whether we will merely be followers of technology or its pioneers. This summit has broadened our horizons of thought. Bangladesh is not only ready to embrace AI but also prepared to lead."
Chowdhury further added that Bangladesh can become a significant voice in the global AI advancement by focusing on three pillars: developing skilled human resources, formulating inclusive policies, and upholding ethical guidelines.
In the closing ceremony, Major General (Retd.) Muhammad Emdad-Ul-Bari, Chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), and chief guest, remarked that the conference was not just about knowledge exchange but had also opened doors to new possibilities. He stated, "This discussion has taught us to understand that while AI presents immense opportunities, it also brings forth some profound challenges. However, the most crucial message is that the future of this technology depends on our decisions today."
The Bangladesh AI Summit featured four keynote sessions, two panel discussions, five insight sessions, two case studies, and a fireside chat. Additionally, experts discussed AI integration in education, agriculture, healthcare, fintech, and industrial sectors across five breakout sessions.
Keynote discussions at the event covered pertinent topics such as AI's role in shaping the future of Bangladesh, global AI advancements and Bangladesh's potential, what emerging economies should do to navigate the evolving AI landscape, and leveraging the power of inclusive innovation in sectors like agriculture, education, and social development.
Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, highlighted the importance of decentralizing artificial intelligence for social development and Bangladesh's future during the closing session. Numerous other expert speakers shared their knowledge and expertise on their respective subjects throughout the conference.
AI Hackathon Crowns Six Winners
At the summit, the winners of the AI Hackathon, another initiative by the Bangladesh Innovation Conclave, were also honored. Six innovative AI solutions were recognized across six sectors: city management, manufacturing, education, agriculture, fintech, and healthcare. Each winning team in these six categories received an honorarium of BDT 1 lakh.
In the hackathon, 'Machine Mindset' from the University of Rajshahi won in the industrial production category. 'QRARG' from the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) won in the healthcare category, 'Runtime Terrors' from the Institute of Information Technology won in the fintech category, 'Code Farmers' from BRAC University won in the agriculture category, 'Team Gliders' from Bangladesh University of Professionals won in the urban management category, and 'Burak' from Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET) won in the education category.
The AI Hackathon commenced on March 10 with the goal of creating AI-driven technologies to solve urban and sector-specific problems in Bangladesh. The competition saw 177 teams from 70 institutions participate, from which 31 teams were shortlisted on April 16. These teams worked on their prototypes from April 17 to May 5. Subsequently, participants attended a two-day bootcamp held at BRAC University on May 6 and 7, where they received mentorship from industry experts and presented their solutions at the final exhibition.
The event's strategic partners included Creative IT Institute, Reve Chat, International Distribution Company Bangladesh PLC, Marketing Society of Bangladesh, NAMMCON, and International Advertising Association Bangladesh. Turkish Airlines served as the official career partner. Pran was the refreshment partner, and Backpage PR was the PR partner.
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