Government targets 1m ICT jobs, pledges support for DIU AI projects
The government has set an ambitious target to create one million jobs in the information and communication technology sector within the next five years, while pledging robust support for innovative artificial intelligence projects developed by students of Daffodil International University.
Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology and Minister for Science and Technology Faqir Mahbub Anam announced the initiatives while inaugurating the Artificial Intelligence Research Laboratory and AI Project Competition 2026 at Daffodil International University in Savar on Saturday (11 July).
He said the government is prioritising the development of an artificial intelligence-skilled workforce and fostering an enabling environment for research and innovation. His ministerial portfolios were confirmed by the ICT Division.
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"Artificial intelligence is no longer just a technology; it has become a key driver of economic growth, employment and innovation. Our goal is to create one million new jobs in the ICT sector over the next five years," said the minister.
He said, "Prime Minister Tarique Rahman views young people as the driving force behind Bangladesh's future."
Faqir Mahbub Anam said university-based artificial intelligence laboratories could serve as centres of excellence for research, innovation and technological development. He added that such facilities could help students acquire advanced skills, conduct research and develop industry-oriented prototypes and solutions.
The minister said artificial intelligence is already transforming education, healthcare, agriculture, industry, business and public administration.
He announced that the government would support the most promising projects among 145 artificial intelligence initiatives developed by Daffodil International University students, with support to be provided through the ministry's Startup Fund and other relevant platforms.
He also highlighted government plans to establish artificial intelligence training centres nationwide and expand satellite-based internet connectivity to grassroots communities.
The newly inaugurated laboratory features 25 Nvidia DGX Spark workstations and five high-performance computers equipped with RTX 3060 and RTX 4090 graphics processing units.
Five full-time researchers have been appointed to work on real-world problems, artificial intelligence agents, and technology-based products.
According to the university, the research team has already developed "AI Professor", "AI Proctor", and "AI Registrar", and is working on a "Smart Classroom" project.
Following the inauguration, the minister presented prizes to 12 teams in six categories. The winners were selected from among 145 projects showcased in the competition.
Dr Md Sabur Khan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Daffodil International University, chaired the programme.
Professor Dr SMR Kabir, Vice-Chancellor; Professor Dr Md Shams Iqbal, Pro-Vice-Chancellor; and Professor Dr Md Sarwar Hossain Mollah, Head of the Department of Computing and Information Systems, attended alongside faculty members, students, and invited guests.
The event, job target, and project-support announcement were also reported by BSS.
