Shikho introduces free AI education platform to widen access to digital skills

Shikho has launched Think AI, a free Bangla-language course aimed at building foundational artificial intelligence literacy among students, teachers and workers in Bangladesh, where more than half the population is under 25.

Developed in collaboration with LightCastle Partners and supported by Meta, the course is hosted on Shikho's platform and structured into four modules covering AI fundamentals, generative tools, ethical use and practical upskilling pathways.

It requires no prior technical background and targets secondary and university students, educators, freelancers and young professionals.

The launch event, held at the Renaissance Hotel in Gulshan, Dhaka, brought together more than 60 participants from government ministries, private sector actors and development partners.

Discussions focused on integrating the course into existing education systems, expanding AI literacy across sectors and creating a replicable public-private model for digital skills development.

Shikho Founder and CEO Shahir Chowdhury described artificial intelligence as a transformative shift, saying it reduces geographic barriers to opportunity.

"For the first time in modern history, geography doesn't have to dictate destiny," he said.

Prime Minister's Office (Education) Adviser Mahdi Amin said the government is working to digitise the national curriculum and standardise teaching quality.

"We are going to convert our curriculum to a digital curriculum… AI will play an instrumental role," he said.

PMO (ICT) Adviser Rehan Asif Asad stressed the importance of connectivity and data infrastructure, saying AI deployment depends on national-scale digital readiness.

"For AI to work, it is absolutely critical to have the data," he said.

LightCastle Partners CEO Bijon Islam, who moderated the panel, said AI could narrow the gap between Bangladesh and developed economies, particularly for young professionals and freelancers.

Think AI is positioned as an entry-level, accessible tool to expand AI literacy in Bangladesh's large youth population and growing digital workforce