Prof. Dr. Dip Nandi
Associate Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology, American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a transformation witnessed worldwide. Bangladesh finds itself at a crucial juncture in its trajectory amid this transformation. Investigating how the latest trends in this captivating technology can empower the country is necessary now more than ever. We must explore how AI can enhance governance, stimulate the economy, empower the population, and foster an inclusive society. The success of this endeavour hinges on visionary leadership that values ethical considerations, promotes collaboration, and invests in talent cultivation. By harnessing AI technology, Bangladesh can secure a prosperous technology-driven future.
The Emergence of Artificial Intelligence
Technology is evolving, and AI is ushering in a new era of efficiency, innovation, and automation. According to renowned AI researcher Andrew Ng, “AI is the new electricity. In the future, it will power nearly everything.” Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, echoes this sentiment, claiming, “The AI revolution is not replacing people, it’s augmenting them.”
AI encompasses a range of technologies, including machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing, which enable pattern recognition, data-driven learning, and independent decision-making. The potential applications of AI are vast, impacting sectors such as healthcare, transportation, manufacturing, and finance.
Bangladesh, a nation with a thriving economy and ambitious development aspirations, is strategically positioned to leverage AI as a catalyst for progress. AI can play a pivotal role in accomplishing multifaceted development in Bangladesh.
AI-powered edu- cational platforms can customise lessons to suit students’ individual strengths and weaknesses. AI-driven medical systems can enhance disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Imagine chatbots equipped with AI capabilities providing basic medical advice in remote areas or detecting digital fraud to safeguard citizens’ privacy.
AI can automate administrative tasks, such as responding to public inquiries or issuing permits. It can streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and promote transparency. Furthermore, AI can facilitate data-driven decision-making in the allocation of resources, disaster response efforts, and infrastructure development.
AI can detect equipment malfunctions and optimise production lines, aiding in understanding consumer behaviour and industry trends, leading to innovative products and targeted marketing campaigns. Additionally, AI can automate logistical and documentation procedures, reducing costs and delays in international trade.
AI has the potential to revolutionise transportation networks and energy management, leading to a more sustainable future. Additionally, AI can provide targeted assistance to individuals in need. For instance, AI can identify regions that require employment opportunities and allocate funds for educational and career training initiatives.
Figure 1: Key Components of Leadership Role
Leadership for implementation of Artificial Intelligence
Effective leaders must possess a clear vision and strategy for AI implementation. It is crucial for them to invest in robust technological infrastructure, including high- performance computing capabilities that are accessible and affordable to businesses and researchers nationwide.
▪ Vision & Strategy: Leaders should concentrate on developing inclusive plans that consider the ethical implications, objectives, and usage of AI.
▪ Investment & Infrastructure: Strategic investments are required to establish a strong infrastructure, encompassing cloud computing and secure data storage solutions.
▪ Talent Acquisition & Development: A skilled workforce is vital for successful AI integration. Leaders must promote education and training programs in AI-related fields such as data science, machine learning, and engineering. Collaboration with universities and research institutions can facilitate the creation of specialised programs and attract top talent. Existing workforce training initiatives can be enhanced to equip professionals with the essential skills to thrive in this technological era.
▪ Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between the government, academic institutions, and the corporate sector is essential to fully harness the potential of AI. By providing subsidies for research and development, the public and private sectors can work together to foster an innovative environment. Academic institutions can contribute by directing their research towards themes that are relevant to Bangladesh’s specific circumstances, while the business sector can offer expertise in developing and deploying AI systems.
▪ Ethical Considerations: Leaders must ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI. This involves safeguarding data privacy, ensuring transparency in the decision-making processes of AI systems, and minimising potential biases in their operations. Furthermore, leaders must ensure that AI usage aligns with existing legal frameworks within the country while adhering to global standards. The implementation of rules and regulations is required to ensure that society benefits from AI integration.