Bangladesh Observes World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
Despite being modest in scale, this year’s observance of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) in Bangladesh reflects a bold shift in tone and intent. Moving beyond conventional seminars and roundtable discussions, the government—along with private sector partners, young innovators, and veterans of the July uprising—has organized a nationwide, participatory celebration aimed at showcasing local talent and technological potential.
Set to be held on May 17, the official celebrations are divided into two major events across Dhaka. On Friday, students from across the country gathered at the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) to present practical, team-based solutions to national challenges. Thirty-five teams, each consisting of four students, demonstrated their concepts, aiming to apply technological innovation to real-life problems.
On Saturday, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) headquarters in Agargaon will host a day-long telecom festival under the theme:
“Digital Innovation for Gender Equality.”
In a departure from formality, this year’s program emphasizes inclusivity and real-world impact. Organizers aim to inspire broader social and economic development by highlighting the role of both men and women in building a robust digital future. In line with this year’s theme, Bangladesh as an ITU member state underscores: “At every stage of technological advancement, people—not gender—should be the focus.”
The BTRC premises will host 31 exhibition stalls, featuring innovations from public and private telecom service providers as well as student-led projects. A special session on the significance of the day will also be held during the exhibition.
BTRC Chairman Md. Emdadul Bari will receive the day’s guests, and ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin will deliver a message via video.
The main session will be presided over by Acting Secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division, Md. Zahirul Islam. Chief Guest will be Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, Adviser to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives. Special Guests include Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Adviser to the Posts, Telecommunications and ICT Division and Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser; Shish Haider Chowdhury, Secretary of the ICT Division; and Mahbuba Farzana, Secretary of Information and Broadcasting.
According to organizers, environmentally friendly banners have been placed throughout key locations in Dhaka—Bangladesh Secretariat (in and around), the Press Club, the Chief Adviser’s Office, Bijoy Sarani (towards the Military Museum), and the entrance to BTRC—to spread awareness about the day.
Special supplements and features will be published in both online and traditional media outlets. Individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to the telecom sector, both nationally and internationally, will be honored with special recognitions.
In a notable addition, assistive devices will be distributed to wounded heroes from the July movement, acknowledging their courage and sacrifices.
On Friday, stalls—including one by “36 July”—were seen putting finishing touches on their decorations, setting the stage for a celebration that hopes to balance innovation with inclusivity, remembrance with recognition.
