Photo : Messenger
To highlight the remarkable achievements, potential, and the possibility of Bangladesh becoming a global digital hub in the dynamic future of the ICT sector, the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) organized a seminar titled "Bangladesh: The Emerging ICT Powerhouse" on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center, Purbachal.
The event was graced by special guests, including Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb , Policy Adviser (ICT Coordination & Reform) of the ICT Division; Ichiguchi Tomohide, Chief Representative of JICA Bangladesh; and Baby Rani Karmakar, Director General of the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). Other distinguished attendees included Yuji Ando, Country Representative of JETRO in Bangladesh; Samsoo Kim, Director General of KOTRA; and senior officials from various organizations.
In his welcome speech, BASIS Administrator Dr. Muhammed Mehedi Hassan stated, “BASIS began its journey in 1998 with only 18 members and has now grown into a national trade organization with over 2,650 successful member companies. Along the way, we have created millions of jobs and developed world-class local innovative products and services. In FY 2023-24, Bangladesh exported ICT services worth USD 840 million to over 137 countries. I call for the combined efforts of all stakeholders to accelerate innovation, enhance collaboration, and ensure sustainable development.”
The keynote address was delivered by BASIS Standing Committee Chairman Rafel Kabir, who emphasized, “Developing skilled manpower is crucial for realizing the future potential of Bangladesh’s ICT sector. Our country has a large pool of talented youth who, with proper training and guidance, can lead the global ICT landscape. BASIS is playing a pivotal role in achieving this goal, and this seminar will open new horizons on our path to progress.”
The seminar was moderated by BASIS Associate Committee Member Fidaul Haq, while Raisul Kabir from the associate committee and BASIS member Syed Mosharraf Ali shared their companies’ success stories in ICT. Additionally, Martin Labbe, Tech Sector Development Coordinator at ITC, highlighted his visit at BASIS in 2010 and Bangladesh's ICT success stories and experiences through a video message.
Speaking at the seminar, Faiz Ahmed Taiyeb said, “We are committed to ensuring global leadership for Bangladesh in the ICT sector. This year, we aim to implement the Bangladesh National Data Architecture (BNDA) design, formulate a comprehensive ICT master plan, and improve unplanned high-tech parks to upgrade ICT infrastructure. By 2030, we plan to train 6 to 8 million skilled ICT professionals. With a strong data governance framework and the right national image, we aim to contribute 5% to GDP from the ICT sector. I urge BASIS to organize more advisory seminars to address the growing demands of emerging industries.”
EPB Director General Baby Rani Karmakar highlighted the creativity of young innovators and their contributions to building a prosperous, technology-driven Bangladesh. She remarked, “Through the use of technology, the entry time for visitors at this year’s Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) 2025 has significantly decreased, which is a great example of the power of technology. To address future challenges, this seminar is jointly organized by BASIS and EPB as part of DITF 2025.”
In her closing remarks, Fouzia Nigar Sultana, l Member (Finance) of the BASIS Associate Committee, expressed gratitude to the participants and stated, “By strengthening international partnerships, we aim to position ourselves as a leading provider of high-quality and affordable digital solutions on the global stage.”
The seminar also highlighted the sector's vast achievements, showcasing transformative projects like e-tax filing systems, land registration processes, and health tech services—primarily executed by BASIS members.
Messenger/Tushar
