Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology and Science and Technology, Faqir Mahbub Anam, on Saturday said that tech-skilled youth will build a prosperous Bangladesh of the future, emphasizing that there is no alternative to developing skilled human resources in Artificial Intelligence (AI), programming and innovative technologies.
He described the National High School Programming Contest as an effective platform for achieving this goal.
The Minister made the remarks while addressing the prize-giving and closing ceremony of the National High School Programming Contest 2026 as the Chief Guest at the National Science and Technology Complex in Agargaon, Dhaka.
He said that in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, programming, Artificial Intelligence and innovative technologies have become key drivers of national development.
The talent, creativity and problem-solving abilities demonstrated by young students through the competition reflect the immense potential of Bangladesh’s technology-driven future.
Faqir Mahbub Anam further said that the world has entered the age of Artificial Intelligence, opening unprecedented opportunities for talented individuals across the globe. To remain competitive in this rapidly evolving world, young people must equip themselves with modern technological knowledge, scientific skills and innovative capabilities. There is no substitute for technological proficiency to succeed in future global competition, he added.
Referring to the government’s election manifesto commitments, the Minister said that the government is working to create employment opportunities for youth, enhance technical and language skills, support startups and entrepreneurship, facilitate access to global e-commerce platforms and ensure merit-based recruitment.
Addressing the students, he said, “Every innovation begins with a simple question. Therefore, learn to ask questions, observe, experiment and develop the courage to innovate without fearing failure.”
The Minister expressed optimism that participants emerging from such competitions would contribute to technological innovation, research and world-class software development, further enhancing Bangladesh’s reputation on the global stage.
Speaking as Special Guest, Secretary (In-Charge) of the Information and Communication Technology Division, Md. Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, said that the youth of Bangladesh would lead the country’s technology-driven future. To nurture their talent and innovative capabilities, the government has undertaken various initiatives.
Organized by the Information and Communication Technology Division and implemented by the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC), the National High School Programming Contest 2026 recorded a total of 17,839 registrations across five categories comprising quiz and programming events.
Following regional competitions, 832 contestants qualified for the national final round in the programming and quiz categories.
The closing ceremony was presided over by A T M Ziaul Islam, Executive Director of the Bangladesh Computer Council.
