Dhaka: Prime Minister's Adviser on Public Administration Ismail Zabihullah today announced that the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) would transform public administration into a more citizen-friendly domain. His comments came during the certificate award and closing ceremony of the 144th and 145th Law and Administration Courses at the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) Administration Academy in Shahbagh, Dhaka.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Zabihullah emphasized the need for a skilled, innovative, technology-driven, and people-oriented public administration under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. He highlighted that public administration now extends beyond paperwork, becoming a knowledge-, technology-, and innovation-driven field. AI's role in policy analysis, service delivery, complaint resolution, corruption prevention, and data-driven decision-making was underscored as crucial for future administrative officers.
Zabihullah stressed the importance of equipping administrative officers with necessary technological skills and enhancing government digital platforms to make them more effective and citizen-friendly through AI. He also highlighted the potential for Bangladesh's economic growth in sectors beyond the readymade garment industry, such as leather, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, high-tech manufacturing, and knowledge-based services. To support this, the government has allocated Tk 5 billion for the startup sector for the current fiscal year.
Drawing inspiration from China's "One Village, One Product" initiative, Zabihullah suggested utilizing each district's unique potential by promoting production, processing, branding, and marketing through coordinated efforts. He encouraged officials to pilot such a project in one district. He further stressed that an administrative officer's true identity lies in their work, integrity, and innovative thinking. Officers are urged to undertake new initiatives to simplify citizens' lives, save time, and ensure efficient use of state resources.
Zabihullah praised Bangladesh's progress under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership and highlighted the pivotal role of public administration officials in establishing discipline, accountability, and a strong work culture in governance. He mentioned the government's adoption of a 180-day action plan and the preparation of a national action plan to fulfill election manifesto commitments. The successful implementation of these programs, he noted, depends on the dedication and competence of officials at all levels.
Addressing the newly trained officers, Zabihullah acknowledged the challenges they will face in their careers and encouraged them to view challenges as opportunities. He urged them to continue learning and to remain open to new technologies and ideas, emphasizing that the certificates they received mark the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning.
Dr. Mohammad Altaf-Ul-Alam, Rector of the BCS Administration Academy, chaired the programme. He highlighted the training's philosophy, "Administration for the people, not people for the administration," and noted that the five-month programme prepared 74 officers to build a skilled, innovative, and people-oriented public administration. The event was attended by officials from various government departments and faculty members of the BCS Administration Academy.