Bangladesh: Bangladesh and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) today signed a US$13 million grant agreement to develop innovative technology experts with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) in Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Record of Discussion (RoD) and Terms of Reference (TOR) for the project titled “Fostering Innovative Technology Experts with a Focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Bangladesh” were signed at a ceremony in the capital. The initiative is set to be implemented by the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority under the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division, with KOICA providing the financial support.
The project, scheduled to run from 2026 to 2029, aims to establish a strong foundation of AI knowledge and skills among Bangladeshi technology professionals. This initiative is designed to meet the growing demands of the rapidly evolving global IT industry and will promote innovation by enhancing collaboration between industry and academia. It aims to empower technology professionals to apply advanced technologies to real-world problems.
In addition, the project will focus on encouraging the use of AI-based solutions to tackle local and national challenges, thereby contributing to Bangladesh’s sustainable economic growth. It will also work towards improving the employability and job prospects of Bangladeshi professionals both domestically and internationally, including opportunities in the Republic of Korea, through advanced technical training and industry-oriented capacity development.
The signing ceremony was attended by ERD Secretary Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky, ICT Division Secretary Md Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, and senior officials from Bangladesh and KOICA. Masuma Akter, Additional Secretary and Wing Chief (Asia, JEC and FandF) of ERD, signed the RoD and TOR on behalf of the Government of Bangladesh, while KOICA Country Director Jihoon Kim represented the South Korean agency.
The project is expected to significantly strengthen Bangladesh’s AI ecosystem by developing skilled professionals and fostering closer links between academia and industry, as stated in the press release issued by the Economic Relations Division.