Financial Crime World

Bangladesh Aims to Become a “Smart” Nation by 2041

Introduction

In a bid to transform into a technologically advanced nation, Bangladesh has set its sights on becoming a “smart” country by 2041. The ambitious goal is built upon the foundation of digital identity verification and innovation, with the government aiming to leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and biometrics to drive sustainable development.

A Journey Towards Mass Digitization

Bangladesh’s journey towards mass digitization began in 2009 and has made significant strides since then. The establishment of Union Digital Centers (UDCs) and the development of a national e-Government Master Plan have been key milestones in Bangladesh’s digital transformation. Additionally, collaborations with global tech leaders such as Oracle and Samsung underscore the growing importance placed on the country’s virtual sphere.

Challenges Persist

Despite these advances, obstacles persist, including:

  • Digital service quality: Ensuring that citizens have access to reliable and efficient digital services is crucial for the success of Bangladesh’s “smart” nation initiative.
  • Internet security concerns: Protecting citizens’ personal data and preventing cyber threats are essential for maintaining trust in digital systems.
  • Computer literacy: Raising awareness about digital technologies and promoting computer literacy among the population will be critical for harnessing their benefits.

Research Highlights Key Barriers

A study published in the International Journal of Qualitative Research has examined Bangladesh’s shift from digital to smart, identifying key barriers to this move. The study highlights the importance of inclusive policies and regulations to govern emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, blockchain technology, and big data analysis.

Aspire to Innovate Program

The Aspire to Innovate (a2i) program, a pioneering agency for innovation in the public sector, is leading Bangladesh’s digital evolution. The program aims to become an ICT Innovation Agency, leveraging its expertise to drive Bangladesh’s transition towards a “smart” nation.

Prime Minister’s Vision

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government is committed to digitization, with the ambitious “Smart Bangladesh” plan aiming to transform the country by 2041. The legacy of the Digital Bangladesh program, which ended in 2021, includes concrete achievements such as:

  • Digitalizing over 2,000 government services: Making essential public services more accessible and convenient for citizens.
  • Establishing over 9,000 Digital Centers: Providing a platform for citizens to access digital services and bridge the urban-rural divide.

Empowering Communities

Digital identity initiatives have empowered communities in Bangladesh, particularly in:

  • Education sector: Innovative ideas such as virtual classrooms enable seamless learning for students in remote regions.
  • Agriculture sector: Initiatives centered on digital identity have eased the process of accessing important services for farmers, including subsidies, market information, and agricultural extension services.

Adoption of Mobile Financial Services

The adoption of Mobile Financial Services (MFS) has democratized access to citizen services and increased financial inclusion in the country. MFS has used digital IDs to expedite transactions, ecommerce, utility bills, restaurant bills, and more services online, bridging urban-rural divisions.

Bangladesh’s Journey Towards AI

Bangladesh’s journey towards AI is being driven by a draft 2024 National AI Policy, which underscores collaboration among stakeholders to establish the National Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence (NAICE). The policy highlights an updated National Strategy for AI, including:

  • Ethical guidelines: Ensuring that AI systems are designed and deployed in ways that respect human values and rights.
  • Data governance: Establishing clear rules and regulations for the collection, storage, and use of data.
  • Privacy protection measures: Safeguarding citizens’ personal data and preventing unauthorized access.

Challenges Persist

Despite these advances, challenges persist in Bangladesh’s expedition towards becoming a “smart” nation by 2041. Privacy and data security problems necessitate strong safeguards, while AI and blockchain technology offer intriguing solutions to these issues.

Collaboration is Key

Collaboration among stakeholders is essential for tackling difficulties and capitalizing on opportunities, ensuring a complete strategy for digital identity deployment and realizing revolutionary potential.