NGOAB holds workshop on online solution and AI for NGOs
An orientation workshop on "NGOAB Online Solution and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for NGOs" was held in Dhaka today to introduce new digital systems and promote the responsible use of AI for modernising NGO service delivery, improving efficiency, and strengthening governance and accountability.
The workshop was organised by the NGO Affairs Bureau (NGOAB) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with support from the Australian Government under the Institutional Strengthening for Promoting Accelerated Transformation (ISPAT) project.
The event brought together government officials, development partners, and representatives of NGOs to explore how digital innovation and AI can enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness across the sector.
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Delivering remarks as chief guest, NGOAB Director General (in-charge) Barrister Md Khalilur Rahman Khan noted the critical role of NGOs in Bangladesh's development.
"AI is at its best not when it replaces human thinking, but when it sharpens it. It should serve as a tool we guide, not a force that guides us," he said, emphasising balanced use of technology.
Chairing the session, NGOAB Director Dr KM Mamun Uzzaman highlighted the urgency of adapting to technological change.
"Adopting new technologies is now a necessity, but it must be done with accountability and ethical consideration," he said.
Asif Kashem, Senior Programme Manager at the Australian High Commission, underscored the importance of impact and responsible use.
"Technology alone is not sufficient. We need to ensure it benefits people," he said, highlighting the need for safety and data privacy.
Sheela Tasneem Haq, Senior Governance Specialist at UNDP, emphasised responsible and inclusive AI adoption.
"We are the pilot, and AI is the co-pilot," she said, underscoring the importance of addressing data bias, ethics, and the digital divide.
She also stressed the need for public trust and multi-stakeholder engagement in managing risks such as misinformation and online harm.
A key highlight of the event was the live demonstration of the NGOAB Online Solution, marking a shift from paper-based processes to a fully digital system enabling online registration, application tracking, document submission, and integrated payments.
Participants engaged actively, raising practical questions about system usability, timelines, and future features.
Another session focused on practical applications of AI for NGOs, including analytics, compliance support, content generation, and chatbot services. Technical experts demonstrated tools for reporting, data analysis, and workflow efficiency, while emphasising responsible use and verification.
The orientation concluded with a call for continued collaboration among government, development partners, and civil society to scale up digital innovation while safeguarding rights and promoting trust in emerging technologies.
