Dr. Nasim Ahmed :
Data science has emerged as a transformative force across various sectors, including public administration. It involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting large datasets to make informed decisions and optimize processes.
In Bangladesh, where rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic challenges strain public service delivery, leveraging data science can significantly enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.
Despite notable progress in digital governance, Bangladesh continues to face issues such as inefficiencies in healthcare, education, transportation, and governance.
Integrating data science in these sectors can lead to predictive decision-making, resource optimization, and improved citizen satisfaction. The write-up explores how data science can enhance public service delivery in Bangladesh.
Data science applications in public service span predictive analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data processing. These tools enable policymakers to (a) forecast demand for essential services such as healthcare and education, (b) utilize AI-driven decision-making for public administration, and (c) develop data-driven policies to ensure efficiency and equitable resource distribution.
For instance, AI and machine learning models can predict disease outbreaks, optimize traffic flow, and identify corruption risks in governance structures. By implementing data-driven solutions, Bangladesh can significantly improve service delivery outputs.
Bangladesh faces challenges in healthcare accessibility, disease control, and resource management. Data science can revolutionize healthcare by (a) using predictive analytics to anticipate disease outbreaks.
For example, machine learning models can predict dengue outbreaks by analyzing weather patterns and historical data, (b) optimizing hospital resource allocation.
AI-driven algorithms can predict patient inflow, reducing overcrowding and improving resource management.
According to a report by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), the doctor-to-patient ratio in Bangladesh is approximately 1:1581. AI-powered diagnostic tools can bridge the gap, allowing for remote consultations and early diagnosis.
Data science can improve educational outcomes by (a) analyzing student performance data to personalize learning experiences and (b) predicting dropout risks using machine learning models based on attendance and academic performance data.
A study by BRAC found that the dropout rate in secondary education in Bangladesh is around 35%. Predictive analytics can identify at-risk students and enable targeted interventions to reduce this rate.
Corruption remains a major challenge in Bangladesh, ranking 151out of 180 countries in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index.This marks a decline from the previous year, when Bangladesh was ranked 149th.
Data analytics can enhance governance by (a) using big data to detect irregularities in government spending and (b) implementing blockchain technology for transparent land registration.
The Bangladesh government’s A2i (Aspire to Innovate) program has already introduced some data-driven governance models, reducing manual inefficiencies and enhancing service delivery.
Traffic congestion is a significant issue in major cities like Dhaka and Chattogram. Data science can improve urban mobility through (a) real-time traffic monitoring and predictive modeling for congestion control and (b) smart traffic lights that adjust based on vehicle density data.
A study by the World Bank indicates that traffic congestion in Dhaka costs the economy about $3 billion annually in lost productivity. Implementing AI-driven traffic management systems can mitigate these losses.
Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to natural disasters like floods and cyclones. Data science can improve disaster response by (a) analyzing weather patterns to provide early warnings and (b) using geospatial data to identify high-risk areas and plan evacuations.
For example, the Cyclone Preparedness Programme, using AI-powered weather prediction models, has significantly reduced cyclone-related fatalities over the past decades.
Several case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of data science in improving public services.
In India, the AarogyaSetu app used big data to track COVID-19 infections, reducing the spread of the virus. Similarly, Bangladesh’s Surokkha platform facilitated efficient vaccine distribution using real-time data analytics.
According to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, over 120 million people in Bangladesh use the internet, providing an opportunity for data-driven solutions to be widely implemented.
Despite the potential benefits, several challenges hinder the adoption of data science such as (a) Data Privacy Concerns: Ensuring the ethical use of citizen data is crucial (b) Skill Shortage: A lack of data scientists and AI specialists in the public sector (c) Digital Infrastructure: While mobile and internet penetration is high, rural areas still lack adequate digital infrastructure (d) Resistance to Change:Bureaucratic inertia and lack of awareness about data science applications.
To maximize the impact of data science on public service delivery, Bangladesh should consider the following measures: (a) Investment in Data Infrastructure: Developing a centralized digitaldata repository for governance (b) Training and Capacity Building: Introducing data science courses in government training programs (c) Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with private tech firms to build AI-driven solutions (d) Regulatory Frameworks:Implementing data privacy laws to protect citizens while enabling innovation.
Data science can revolutionize public service delivery in Bangladesh by improving efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. Bangladesh must adopt a proactive approach to integrating data-driven solutions. By addressing challenges such as skill shortages and digital infrastructure gaps, the country can unlock the full potential of data science, ensuring sustainable and effective public service delivery for its citizens.
(The author (PhD in Public Policy, Ulster, UK) is an Additional Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs)
