Staff Correspondent

 Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam on Saturday asserted that Bangladesh must transcend beyond being a mere consumer of foreign technology to establish itself as a producer and exporter of technology through indigenous innovation and research.

He made the statements as the chief guest at the "Bangladesh ICT and Innovation Awards 2026" presentation ceremony held at the BRAC University Auditorium in Badda, Dhaka.

Highlighting the country's expanded mobile and internet infrastructure, Fakir Mahbub Anam stressed the need to build a robust technology ecosystem, enhance research capabilities, and develop skilled human resources.

Out of 355 submitted projects, the Bangladesh ICT and Innovation Network (BIIN) recognized 44 outstanding IT innovations following a two-day evaluation by 40 judges representing industry, academia, banking, administration, and startups. A total of 9 champion, 10 winner, and 25 merit awards were presented under the theme "Recognizing Innovation, Inspiring Transformation."

Speaking as a special guest, State Minister for Planning Md. Jonaed Abdur Rahim Saki stated that achieving a trillion-dollar economy requires building a cohesive "trinity" connecting government, industry, and academia. 

BTRC Chairman Major General Md. Emdad Ul Bari (Retd) attended as an honored guest, while BIIN Chairman Syed Almas Kabir presided over the ceremony. BRAC University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Arshad Mahmud Chowdhury and BIIN Executive Director Rubaba Dowla Matin were also present.

The champion and winner recipients earned nominations to represent Bangladesh at the upcoming Asia Pacific ICT Alliance (APICTA) Awards 2026.