Bangladesh, Korea sign $13m grant deal to create AI experts

Bangladesh and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) yesterday signed a $13 million grant agreement to develop technology experts with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) in the country.

The Record of Discussion (RoD) and Terms of Reference (TOR) for the project, titled “Fostering Innovative Technology Experts with a Focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Bangladesh”, were signed at a ceremony in Dhaka.

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The project will be implemented by the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority under the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division, with KOICA providing the $13 million grant.

To be implemented from 2026 to 2029, the project aims to build a strong foundation of AI knowledge and skills among Bangladeshi technology professionals to meet the growing demand of the rapidly evolving global IT industry.

It will promote innovation by strengthening collaboration between industry and academia and enabling technology professionals to apply advanced technologies to real-world problems, according to a press release issued by the Economic Relations Division (ERD).

The initiative will also encourage the application of AI-based solutions to address local and national challenges, contributing to Bangladesh’s sustainable economic growth.

The project will also enhance the employability and job opportunities of Bangladeshi professionals both at home and abroad, including in the Republic of Korea, through advanced technical training and industry-oriented capacity development.

ERD Secretary Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky and ICT Division Secretary Md Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan attended the signing ceremony along with senior officials from Bangladesh and KOICA.

Masuma Akter, additional secretary and wing chief for Asia, JEC and F&F at ERD, signed the RoD and TOR on behalf of the Government of Bangladesh, while KOICA Country Director Jihoon Kim signed on behalf of the South Korean agency.

The project is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s AI ecosystem by developing skilled professionals and fostering stronger links between academia and industry, the release said.