Skills Education Key to Fourth Industrial Revolution

Developing a workforce capable of adapting to rapid technological changes is becoming increasingly important in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Bangladesh is placing greater emphasis on technical and vocational education, artificial intelligence (AI) and nanotechnology to prepare its growing workforce for emerging industries and the global labour market, Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Hoque Milan has said.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at an inauguration and award distribution ceremony at Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) in Dhaka on Wednesday, November 11.

The minister said the government led by Tarique Rahman was giving the highest priority to education. As part of this commitment, 2% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP) had been allocated to education in the budget. The allocation would be increased gradually, he added.

He stressed that the allocated funds must be used effectively to ensure sustainable development of the education sector. All concerned must remain vigilant to prevent any form of waste or misuse of resources.

TVET to build a skilled workforce

Describing human resource development as the most important element of sustainable national development,Milan said Bangladesh needed to transform its large population into a skilled workforce.

The government was therefore working with a strong focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), he said.

He noted that equipping workers with technical skills before sending them abroad could generate substantial foreign currency earnings for the country. A skilled workforce would also help Bangladesh strengthen its position in the international labour market.

AI and nanotechnology skills in focus

Highlighting the far-reaching changes in education brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the minister said the country must adapt its education system to keep pace with technological transformation.

He stressed the importance of developing expertise in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and nanotechnology.

At the same time, he urged everyone to remain aware of the potentially harmful aspects of AI alongside its opportunities.

Four residential buildings inaugurated at BUP

During the ceremony, the minister inaugurated two 14-storey residential halls for male and female students.

He also inaugurated two 14-storey residential buildings for the university's teachers, officers and employees.

BUP students who achieved outstanding results in various competitions were also honoured at the event. The minister handed certificates to the award recipients.

BUP Vice-Chancellor Major General Dr Md Mahbub-ul Alam chaired the programme.

//DBTech/EMA/SME/SMP//