Bangladesh has taken a significant step toward responsible artificial intelligence (AI) governance with the launch of a specialized training programme for civil servants, jointly organized by UNESCO and the Government of Bangladesh.

The three-day training, being held on June 15, 16 and 18 in Dhaka, brings together senior government officials, public procurement professionals and ICT focal points from various ministries to enhance their understanding of AI systems, ethical safeguards and governance frameworks.

The initiative comes as governments worldwide increasingly adopt AI in public administration, service delivery and policy implementation. 

In Bangladesh, UNESCO's AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) identified capacity building among policymakers and public officials as a critical prerequisite for the safe and effective adoption of AI technologies.

“Artificial intelligence is no longer a future issue for governments. It is already influencing how public institutions design services, make decisions and engage with citizens,” said Khalid Bin Masud. 

“Building AI literacy among civil servants is essential to ensuring that AI is adopted in ways that are ethical, transparent and aligned with the public interest.”

He added that the programme aims to strengthen the institutional capabilities required for responsible AI governance in Bangladesh.

The training also supports public institutions seeking to integrate AI into operational processes and public services. According to S.M. Moin Uddin Ahmed, AI is expected to play a key role in the country's next phase of digital transformation.

“This AI Literacy and Ethics Training is both timely and relevant as we advance our digital transformation journey,” he said. “We are actively integrating AI into our programmes and are now exploring how AI can enhance the Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) System and improve public service delivery.”

Participants are expected to gain practical knowledge of AI applications in government, examine ethical and governance challenges, and learn strategies for the responsible deployment of AI across public institutions.

The programme is being delivered through UNESCO’s AI Ethics Experts Without Borders network, bringing together experts from the UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia, UNDP Sri Lanka Citra Social Innovation Lab, BRAC University and North South University. 

Organizers say the initiative promotes regional knowledge sharing and South-South cooperation on emerging AI governance challenges.

The training is part of UNESCO’s broader effort to assist countries in implementing the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and adapting international best practices to national development priorities.

As Bangladesh accelerates its digital transformation agenda, the programme marks a major move toward ensuring that AI adoption in the public sector remains ethical, transparent and accountable.

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