JICA, Matsuo Lab mark completion of global AI programme at BRAC University
A Bangladeshi student has been named among 17 outstanding participants worldwide in GCI World April 2026, a 14-week artificial intelligence education programme involving more than 25,000 students from 114 countries.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory (Matsuo Lab) of the University of Tokyo marked the programme's completion on 8 July, 2026. A hackathon and special lecture were held in collaboration with BRAC University.
GCI World is a global educational initiative of the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory that provides hands-on training in artificial intelligence, data science and machine learning. It combines theoretical study with practical competitions and real-world business applications. Around 700 students from Bangladesh participated in the latest course.
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During the GCI World Hackathon, participants developed AI-driven solutions to practical challenges. Researchers from the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory subsequently delivered a special lecture on developments in artificial intelligence and the application of data science and machine learning to business and societal challenges.
The special lecture and closing session at BRAC University brought together more than 800 students from around the world, both in person and online. Researchers, academics, industry professionals and other guests also attended.
Morikawa Yuko, senior representative of JICA Bangladesh, said connecting AI education with entrepreneurship, research and industry could help Bangladesh develop solutions to domestic challenges.
"If AI education can be connected with entrepreneurship, research, and industry, I believe Bangladesh can develop its own solutions for its own challenges – and in doing so, contribute innovations to the world," she said.
The programme concluded with the announcement of the Outstanding Student Certificate recipients. One Bangladeshi was selected among the 17 recipients worldwide, who will have an opportunity to visit Matsuo Lab at the University of Tokyo in August 2026.
JICA said the initiative forms part of its efforts to strengthen human resource development in Bangladesh through international collaboration and build local capacity in artificial intelligence, data science and digital innovation.
