The government has pledged policy support for young researchers working in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors and robotics, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's political adviser Zahir Uddin Swapons has said.
He made the comment as the chief guest at the project presentation and closing ceremony of "Nippon AI Dojo 2026" at the University of Asia Pacific (UAP) auditorium in Dhaka.
He urged young technologists to deepen their research and develop AI tools, platforms, datasets and programs tailored to Bangladesh’s practical needs while also pursuing world-class technologies.
“Foreign AI tools alone will not be enough for Bangladesh,” Swapon said, highlighting challenges related to electricity generation, computing and graphics processing unit (GPU) capacity, and the availability of Bengali-language datasets.
He said young researchers should also examine the electricity demand and natural-resource requirements associated with developing and operating AI technologies.
Swapon said the prime minister had announced policy support for research and development in robotics, semiconductors and AI.
However, he said experts and researchers should provide the government with clear roadmaps and policy options to help shape appropriate measures.
The political adviser also praised Japan’s partnership in developing young people’s skills in advanced technologies and said such initiatives could help strengthen Bangladesh’s technological capacity.
The event was jointly organized by UAP, Japan-based Chowa Giken Corporation and AI Samurai Japan.
Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Saida Shin-ichi attended the program as the guest of honour.
Speakers at the event included Sayed Abdullah, UAP Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Abu Sayeed M Ahmed and UAP Board of Trustees Chairman KM Mozibul Hoque.
The program was chaired by UAP Board of Trustees member Qayum Reza Chowdhury.
Trainees from UAP, BRAC University and North South University presented their AI projects at the event and received certificates upon completion of the program.
The projects explored applications of AI in areas including agriculture, healthcare, education, manufacturing and freelancing.
The organisers, faculty members, researchers and participants also attended the closing ceremony.
