Saki calls for skills, innovation to build future-ready workforce

Bangladesh needs to create new knowledge, promote innovation and develop technology-based skills to build a humane, skilled and future-ready workforce, State Minister for Planning Md Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki said.

“Effective coordination and partnership among the government, business and industry sectors, and academia are essential to make the country’s development sustainable and dynamic,” he said.

The state minister made the remarks while addressing the Bangladesh Innovation Fair 2026 as the chief guest at the auditorium of Novo Theatre in Agargaon on Monday.

Saki stressed stronger inter-ministerial coordination in development planning and project implementation. According to a Planning Ministry press release, he said the ministry needs to strengthen coordination with all ministries and divisions to prevent overlaps and duplication in development projects.

“This will ensure the maximum and effective use of public resources and help reduce the time and cost of project implementation,” he said.

Saki described the combined efforts of business and industry, academia and the government as a “trinity” crucial to innovation and economic development.

He said stronger links between research and innovation and the practical needs of industries could create more opportunities for new technologies, employment and entrepreneurship.

The state minister also said the government wants to strengthen coordination between government organisations (GOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in every area of development.

He said the government would accelerate comprehensive and inclusive development through GO-NGO partnerships while ensuring the optimum use of common platforms and infrastructure.

Saki stressed the need to utilise the innovative potential of young Bangladeshis to build a knowledge-based and technology-driven economy.

He said innovation fairs could create opportunities for young innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, students and industry representatives to connect and exchange experiences.

CEO of Shikho Shahir Chowdhury, BIIN Chairman Syed Almas Kabir, National Skills Development Authority Executive Chairman Dr Nazneen Kawshar Chowdhury, Bank Asia DMD Akhter Uddin Mahmud, Unilever Bangladesh Director Durdana Chowdhury and North South University ECE Department Professor Dr Sajjad Hossain attended the programme as special guests.

Speakers discussed Bangladesh’s potential in innovation and skills development, techno