Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has emphasized that artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital capability have transcended their technological origins to become critical components for ensuring state security, policymaking, and maintaining a competitive edge on the global stage. Swapon warned of the potential vulnerabilities faced by countries lagging in digital competencies, highlighting that such deficiencies could jeopardize state policies, security strategies, and sensitive information in the future.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister delivered these insights during a seminar on cyber security organized by the Young Engineers Chapter of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh, held at the Engineers Institution in the capital. He stressed the urgency for Bangladesh to cultivate skilled human resources, integrate digital literacy into educational systems, and foster a comprehensive understanding of technology at all levels of policy development to remain competitive in a rapidly advancing AI-driven world.
Swapon urged technologists and researchers to play a proactive role in raising awareness among both the general populace and policymakers about the current technological landscape and its associated risks. He further advocated for the identification and development of talented youth in the country, transforming them into adept professionals specializing in advanced technology and digital security domains.
The seminar was chaired by Young Engineers Chapter Chairman Engineer Md. Tofazzel Hossain, with contributions from IEB President Engineer Riazul Islam Riju, General Secretary Sabbir Mostafa Khan, and Engineer Shahrin Islam Tuhin. Engineer Md. Redwan Zaman Anik provided the keynote address at the event.