DHAKA, Aug 24, 2026 (TFM) —
Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has called for greater recognition and encouragement of researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs to accelerate technology-driven industrial development in Bangladesh.
Speaking as the chief guest at a recognition and award ceremony organised under the Bangladesh Industry Research Development and Innovation (BIRDI) initiative at a Dhaka hotel, the minister said recognising innovative achievements would motivate not only the award recipients but also researchers and innovators across the country.
The event was organised by the Skills for Industry Competitiveness and Innovation Program (SICIP) under the Finance Division of the Ministry of Finance.
The finance minister welcomed the initiative, saying it would help promote innovation, improve productivity and strengthen Bangladesh’s industrial capacity.
The BIRDI programme formally recognised selected researchers, innovators and entrepreneurs for their contributions to industrial development and technological advancement.
Finance Division Secretary and SICIP National Program Director Dr Md Khairuzzaman Mozumder attended the event as a special guest.
In his address, he said the BIRDI initiative was being implemented by the Finance Division with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to develop practical, industry-focused solutions.
According to him, the initiative aims to increase productivity, enhance Bangladesh’s international competitiveness and create a strong foundation of skilled human resources. He added that the programme is closely aligned with SICIP’s vision, “Illuminating Bangladesh through Skills.”
Qingfeng Zhang, Country Director of the ADB Bangladesh Resident Mission, also addressed the programme. He reaffirmed the ADB’s commitment to maintaining a strong, long-term partnership with the Bangladesh government in achieving the programme’s objectives.
The concluding remarks and vote of thanks were delivered by Mohammad Walid Hossain, Additional Secretary of SICIP and Executive Program Director.
He thanked the distinguished guests, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and other participants for their contributions to the successful organisation of the event.
The BIRDI initiative is positioned as a flagship programme to strengthen Bangladesh’s industrial capabilities by promoting industry-oriented research, innovation and the development of practical technological solutions.
