Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Tuesday said that artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and overall digital capability are no longer limited to technological concerns but have become essential for ensuring state security, policymaking and global competitiveness.
He made the remarks while speaking at a seminar on cyber security organised by the Young Engineers Chapter of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) at the Engineers Institution in the capital.
The minister warned that countries falling behind in digital capability risk exposing their state policies, security systems and critical information to future threats.
“If a country falls behind in digital capability, its state policies, security strategies and sensitive information could easily come under threat in the future,” he said.
Swapon noted that the world is rapidly moving into an era driven by artificial intelligence and digital transformation. In this context, he stressed that Bangladesh must develop skilled human resources, integrate digital literacy into education curricula, and strengthen technological understanding at the policymaking level to remain competitive globally.
He also called on technologists, researchers and professionals to raise awareness among both the public and policymakers about emerging technological risks and opportunities.
The minister further emphasised the need to identify talented young people and nurture them into skilled professionals in advanced technology, AI applications and cybersecurity sectors.
The seminar was chaired by Young Engineers Chapter Chairman Engineer Md Tofazzel Hossain.
IEB President Engineer Riazul Islam Riju, its General Secretary Sabbir Mostafa Khan and Engineer Shahrin Islam Tuhin also spoke at the event.
Engineer Md Redwan Zaman Anik presented the keynote paper there.
