Dhaka: Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam emphasized the necessity for the government to transition from isolated digital systems to shared capabilities across its organizations. Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar on National Data Governance, Digital Transformation, and the National Responsible Data Exchange (NRDEX) Platform, Anam highlighted the importance of interoperability and the National Data Exchange in achieving this goal.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar was organized by the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division at Hotel Pan Pacific Sonargaon, in collaboration with the e-Governance Academy and funded by the European Union under the Global Gateway Initiative. The event featured several notable speakers, including the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Michal Krejza from the EU Delegation to Bangladesh, and Farah Shammi from the Cabinet.
Minister Anam pointed out that despite significant investments in digital systems, the government has often ended up with redundant databases and infrastructure. He articulated the need for a change in approach, emphasizing that digital systems should work together rather than in isolation. The minister stressed that the focus should be on building an integrated digital ecosystem where citizens are not required to repeatedly provide the same information to different agencies.
He also underscored the importance of institutional collaboration, governance, and standards for successful interoperability. The minister warned against creating new platforms without addressing the underlying coordination challenges and emphasized that technology cannot compensate for weak governance structures.
The seminar aimed to foster discussions on transitioning to reusable national capabilities, including identity, trusted data exchange, and common infrastructure. Anam highlighted the necessity of ensuring that every investment in digital transformation is made with reusability in mind, to prevent duplication and fragmentation.
Rehan Asif Asad, the Prime Minister’s Adviser, further stressed the crucial role of connectivity, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity in the country’s digital future. He pointed out the necessity of educating the younger generation about AI, whilst also emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity measures.
The event brought together a wide array of stakeholders, including senior government leaders, policymakers, and international experts, to discuss digital transformation priorities. The discussions also focused on the implementation of the National Data Governance Act 2026, Personal Data Protection Act 2026, and Cyber Security Act 2026.
The programme highlighted the importance of digital public infrastructure, particularly digital identity and foundational registries, as essential components of modern e-government. It showcased Estonia’s experience with the Once-Only Principle and trusted data exchange services, promoting an understanding of responsible data sharing and privacy-by-design principles.
Overall, the seminar served as a platform for raising awareness of Bangladesh’s digital transformation agenda and encouraging participation in the NRDEX for secure and accountable data exchange.