Dhaka:Prime Minister's Adviser on Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Rehan Asif Asad, highlighted the necessity for the youth in Bangladesh to have access to essential tools, skills, and opportunities to engage in the ongoing global transformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Asif Asad made these remarks while addressing the Grand Finale of the second edition of FutureMakers, an AI-based idea competition organized by Grameenphone for university students. The event took place at a city hotel, where Asif Asad served as the Chief Guest.
He stressed the importance of equipping young people with the ability to learn and apply emerging technologies to tackle real-world challenges, ensuring Bangladesh can fully leverage the potential of AI. Asif Asad commended Grameenphone's initiative, FutureMakers, for providing a platform for students to explore AI and develop innovative solutions.
The event, themed "AI for Social Good," saw participation from over 7,000 students and the submission of 1,103 ideas from more than 70 universities across Bangladesh. This year's edition marked a 40 percent increase in student engagement compared to the previous edition in 2025.
Participants presented AI-powered solutions in various areas, including digital inclusion, healthcare, upskilling, gender equality, environmental harmony, and data privacy. The judging panel evaluated the entries based on innovation, feasibility, social impact, and practical AI application.
Team LubDub won the competition with their project EchoClip, an AI device enhancing stethoscopes for early heart disease detection. Team River Sentinel and Team Jinxed secured the runner-up positions for their AI-powered river erosion prediction system and speech-therapy application, respectively. The winning teams received monetary prizes and opportunities for further talent development.
BTRC Chairman Maj Gen Md Emdad Ul Bari (retd) and other notable figures attended the event, encouraging participants to pursue responsible innovation and digital inclusion.