Online Desk:
Korea is interested in establishing an AI (Artificial Intelligence) hub with its own funding at Janata Tower in Karwan Bazar.
On Sunday, September 22, 2024, during a meeting with Md. Nahid Islam, the advisor to the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Information and Broadcasting, Korea’s Trade Representative Samsu Kim and Acote Group CEO Edward Kim expressed their interest in this initiative.
Samsu Kim mentioned that Korea is keen to collaborate with Bangladesh on various national systems, including the online National Tax System, e-Customs Clearing System, National Land Information System, and e-Tax System. In response, Advisor Nahid Islam highlighted that the youth of Bangladesh are very enthusiastic about information technology. He assured that training programs would be arranged to enhance their skills in IT. He also noted that many job opportunities need to be created to develop Bangladesh’s digital economy.
Acote Group CEO Edward Kim expressed interest in investing in a2i (Access to Information), to which the advisor responded by stating that a2i is currently funded by UNDP, but the agreement is set to expire in December of this year. He encouraged Edward Kim to discuss potential collaborations with a2i after the UNDP contract ends.
Samsu Kim further commented that, while Bangladesh has a pool of experienced IT personnel, there is a shortage of IT engineers. In this regard, Korea is interested in training young Bangladeshis to become skilled IT engineers. Additionally, he briefed the advisor on the National Information Project (NIP).
In response, the advisor remarked that the National Information Project (NIP) could be an important initiative for all involved. As it is a matter of national policy, a decision on whether the government will adopt this policy will be made after discussions with stakeholders.
