Digital transformation in Bangladesh 2.0
As Bangladesh transitions towards a new era of leadership, the future of digital transformation remains a critical priority, especially if we wish to position the country as a thought leader in our peer group
Over the last two decades, Bangladesh has made significant strides in transforming its digital landscape. Policies supporting internet access, e-governance, and ICT education have helped lay the foundation for a more tech-savvy, digitally inclusive nation.
With a rapidly growing ICT sector, the country has seen notable improvements in financial inclusion, digital healthcare, education, and e-commerce. Successful initiatives like mobile financial services (MFS), digitised government services (e-GP), and the growth of tech startups have contributed to Bangladesh's emergence as a rising player in the digital economy.
Nevertheless, in a report published in July, Bangladesh scores a mere 62 out of 100 in the ICT Development Index tracked by the International Telecommunication Union. This is well below the global average of 74.8, and even below the average score for other lower middle-income countries.
Tracking a basket of categories such as connectivity and digital inclusion, use of digital services and web traffic, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, digitalised government, education, health, governance, cybersecurity and more, the index provides relevant aspirational goals for any country vying for excellence in digital infrastructure.
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As Bangladesh transitions towards a new era of leadership, the future of digital transformation remains a critical priority, especially if we wish to position the country as a thought leader in our peer group.
The original 'Digital Bangladesh' initiative, launched by the previous government under the Vision 2021, catalysed a revolution in governance, technology, and socio-economic transformation, but the growth rate had reached a plateau.
Bangladesh 2.0 necessitates the next and more accelerated phase of this evolution, where digital infrastructure will become further embedded into our daily lives, boosting innovation and addressing new challenges.
With new leadership on the horizon for Bangladesh 2.0, what is needed to advance this momentum? What are new solution spaces that can further enhance the daily lives of Bangladeshi citizens, while propelling us forward on the ICT Development Index?
We have been at the forefront of building digital infrastructure across various industries. With a focus on technology excellence and scalability, we foresee necessary investments in these areas to push Bangladesh towards the edges of her potential while improving self-reliance:
Smart cities for a smarter tomorrow: With rapid urbanisation, smart city solutions could ease the growing pains of traffic congestion, waste management, and pollution in cities like Dhaka and Chattogram.
Imagine AI-powered traffic systems that reduce gridlock, intelligent waste collection that keeps streets clean, and air quality monitors that help curb pollution. With smart public transport apps, efficient street lighting, and seamless access to city services, urban life could become more manageable and enjoyable.
AI-powered agriculture: Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Bangladesh's economy. By incorporating AI, machine learning, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices, farmers can receive real-time insights into weather patterns, soil conditions, crop health, and market prices.
This not only increases productivity but also ensures sustainable farming practices. Drone technology for precision agriculture and smart irrigation systems could revolutionise the sector, helping Bangladesh achieve food security.
5G and beyond: Bangladesh's upcoming 5G rollout can be a game-changer in boosting digital services. Ultra-fast internet speeds could enable remote education, telemedicine, and even new industries like electric vehicles (EVs) and virtual reality (VR). Expanding 5G access to rural areas would ensure that everyone benefits from the digital revolution, fostering more inclusive growth.
Decentralised finance (DeFi) and blockchain: Bangladesh's mobile banking success can serve as a launchpad for decentralised finance (DeFi), powered by blockchain. This would provide secure, transparent, and low-cost financial services to those who are still outside the traditional banking system. Blockchain could also help combat corruption by offering tamper-proof voting systems, smart contracts, and reliable land registration records.
Revolutionising healthcare: Digital Bangladesh V2.0 could make healthcare more accessible by expanding telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and wearable health devices. Rural communities could receive specialised care from urban centres, while AI could assist doctors in detecting diseases earlier and creating personalised treatment plans.
Education 4.0: It is a vision for the future of education that combines technology and innovative teaching methods to prepare students for the 21st century. Bangladesh's education system could transform by integrating cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and AI-driven personalised learning platforms.
Hybrid and online education models have already gained traction, but by embracing 'Education 4.0,' students can receive dynamic, skills-based learning experiences, better preparing them for the future job market.
Cybersecurity and digital literacy: As digital adoption grows, so do the risks. Enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure, educating citizens on safe internet practices, and developing strong data protection regulations will be critical to safeguarding the gains of digital transformation in Bangladesh 2.0. National efforts to boost digital literacy across the population will ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.
This list is not all inclusive and there are many more avenues for Bangladesh to explore the boundaries of innovation. The future is bright, with opportunities to grow through scalable policies, global partnerships, and greater private sector involvement.
By expanding affordable internet access and adopting cutting-edge digital solutions, Bangladesh can continue improving education, healthcare, and governance while fostering economic development.
Building on a solid foundation, Bangladesh has the potential to become a leader in the digital world. We can improve our standing in the digital index and not only mitigate national security challenges but also become a meaningful international contributor in addressing major challenges like climate change, urbanisation, and poverty— ultimately enhancing the quality of life for millions.
Farhan Islam is the Chief Operating Officer of Sheba Technologies Ltd.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard
