Govt to build a smart AI city

The government has taken initiatives to build smart cities and make citizen services more people-friendly through the use of artificial intelligence (AI), as well as to integrate AI into the education system so that younger generations can develop the skills needed for the future workforce.

The government has embraced AI as a major opportunity for the country's development and modernisation.

Considering the potential of the information technology sector, the finance minister, in his budget speech, proposed an allocation of Tk 500 crore in fiscal year 2026-27 to encourage innovation in this sector.

This fund will be used as a startup fund to support women entrepreneurs, promote women's advancement, and foster the development of young entrepreneurs.

The objective of the smart AI city is to utilise the skills, creativity, and innovative potential of young people to create startups and nurture freelancers, content creators, and AI technology-based entrepreneurs, according to the budget speech.

It also aims to make decision-making more effective and dynamic through the use of AI-driven data centres in government planning and service delivery.

The government also seeks to improve the quality of public services, enhance efficiency in administrative activities, and increase transparency and accountability through the use of AI.

These initiatives will play a significant role in transforming Bangladesh into an innovation-driven, technology-enriched, and self-reliant nation.