Context-Centric AI Call: UGC Chief Urges Localized, Ethical Innovation

Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, has advised the development of artificial intelligence (AI) capable of effectively applying research-based knowledge and technology to solve the country’s social problems, while deeply understanding language, culture, religious values, and social context.

He made these remarks as a special guest at the inaugural session of the 6th Young Scientist Congress organized by the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences on Saturday, March 4.

The UGC Chairman stated that artificial intelligence is no longer a subject of science fiction; rather, it is opening new horizons in healthcare, sustainable development, and scientific research. However, while the rapid advancement of generative AI is creating new opportunities, it is also posing fresh challenges related to employment, ethics, and data security.

He noted that young scientists are the architects of the nation’s future and that their role is very important in addressing the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Highlighting the country’s significant demographic dividend, he said that if this vast youth population can be transformed into a skilled workforce, they will become the primary driving force behind national development and innovation.

He emphasized three key areas for young scientists. First, they must move beyond theoretical research and apply technology to solve real-world problems in the country—particularly in rural healthcare, agricultural development, and research-based startup sectors.

Second, AI development must be context-based, taking into account the country’s language, culture, and social realities, so that technology aligns with practical needs.

Third, researchers must ensure data security, ethics, and neutrality in research and innovation. He also stressed the importance of the rational use of AI to enhance productivity while preserving human creativity.

He further stated that the UGC is working to strengthen the research ecosystem to transform higher education institutions into hubs of AI-driven innovation. He urged researchers and scientists to make optimal use of facilities under UGC initiatives such as the Higher Education Acceleration and Transformation (HEAT) Project, the “Improving Computer and Software Engineering Tertiary Education Project (ICSETEP),” and the Bangladesh Research and Education Network.

The event was attended by Fakir Mahbub Anam, Minister of Science and Technology, as the chief guest. The session, chaired by Professor Dr. Zinatun Nessa Tahmida Begum, Vice-President of the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, also featured speeches by Science and Technology Ministry Secretary Md. Anwar Hossain, Academy Secretary Professor Dr. Yarul Kabir, conference organizing committee chairperson and secretary Major General (Retd.) Professor Dr. ASM Matiur Rahman, and Professor Dr. Liaquat Ali.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Young Scientists for Artificial Intelligence.” More than three hundred young scientists from various universities and research institutions across the country are participating. They will present research papers in fields including physics, chemistry, natural resources and environment, agriculture, life sciences, mathematics, engineering, computer science, health, nutrition, and pharmaceutical sciences.

Theme speakers at the conference include Professor Dr. Ehsan Hoque of the Department of Computer Science at the University of Rochester, Professor Dr. Tarjima Hashem of the Center for AI and Digital Health Technology at Charles Sturt University in Australia, and Professor Dr. Hasan Sarwar of the School of Science and Engineering at United International University.

DBTech/MJR/EK/OR