Bangladesh must become technology producer, exporter: Minister
A total of 355 projects were submitted for this year’s awards, with 44 innovations recognised after evaluation by 40 judges from industry, academia, banking, public administration and startups.
Bangladesh must move beyond being a consumer of foreign technology and become a producer and exporter by strengthening indigenous innovation, research and technological capabilities, Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam said today (3 October).
He said the government is working to establish the 'Made in Bangladesh' brand globally in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor design, software, data centres and digital services.
The minister made the remarks as chief guest at the Bangladesh ICT and Innovation Awards 2026 at the BRAC University Auditorium in Badda, Dhaka, reads a ministry press release.
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He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Bangladesh is moving from a labour-based economy towards a knowledge-based one, with the goal of becoming one of the world's leading digital economies within the next five years.
"Standing in this auditorium today, I am not merely seeing some young faces; I am seeing the reflection of a future prosperous and modern Bangladesh. Facing problems, instead of complaining, they have created practical solutions using their own intellect," he said.
A total of 355 projects were submitted for this year's awards. Following a two-day evaluation by 40 judges from industry, education, banking, public administration and startup sectors, the Bangladesh ICT and Innovation Network recognised 44 innovations.
The awards, themed 'Recognising Innovation, Inspiring Transformation', included nine Champion, 10 Winner and 25 Merit awards.
Mahbub Anam said the large number of submissions demonstrated that Bangladesh's youth have significant talent and innovative potential.
He said the country's large young and working population, along with expanded mobile and internet networks, had created a foundation for a technology-based economy. The country now needs stronger indigenous innovation, research, skills development and an effective technology ecosystem.
"The innovations being recognised here today are a matter of immense pride for us. Efforts have been made to ease people's lives and solve real problems using digital technology and artificial intelligence. These are not blind imitations of foreign technology, but genuine Bangladeshi solutions to our own problems," he said.
The minister said turning prototypes into commercial products and industries would require research, investment and policy support. He assured young innovators of government support and urged them to showcase Bangladesh's capabilities internationally.
He also called on private entrepreneurs and investors to become early customers of innovations, support pilot projects and provide investment. Universities, he said, must build stronger links between research laboratories and industry.
Planning State Minister Zonayed Saki said an empowering, democratic, humane, welfare-oriented and inclusive Bangladesh must be built by harnessing the innovative potential of young people.
He said innovation, research and business must be linked to achieve the goal of building a trillion-dollar economy. A coordinated platform involving the government, business sector and academia is essential, he added.
Science and Technology Secretary Anwar Hossain said Bangladesh still faces challenges in marketing, incubation and commercialising innovations.
He said stronger links among academia, industry and government, along with skilled human resources, financing, policy support and an effective innovation ecosystem, were needed to turn research and innovation into economic and social impact.
