On the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) 2025, Professor Khondaker A. Mamun, PhD, Director of the Institute of Research, Innovation, Incubation, and Commercialization (IRIIC) at United International University (UIU), participated as a panelist in a high-level seminar organized by the Posts and Telecommunications Division of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

The seminar, held on May 17, 2025, at the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) headquarters, brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and academic experts to discuss this year’s WTISD theme—“Gender Equality in Digital Transformation.” Professor Mamun contributed to Session 2, which focused on “Industry-Academia Collaboration to Drive Digital Transformation in Bangladesh.”

In the panel discussion, Professor Mamun emphasized the critical role of universities in fostering innovation ecosystems that align with national digital strategies. He highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between academic research and industry application, especially in emerging areas like artificial intelligence, health technology, and inclusive digital infrastructure. Drawing from his leadership at IRIIC and experience with startup incubation and public-private partnerships, he shared actionable insights on how academia can contribute meaningfully to solving real-world challenges through tech-driven solutions.

His participation underscored IRIIC’s mission to serve as a bridge between research and implementation—supporting Bangladesh’s transition toward a digitally inclusive future. The discussion also reinforced the need for cross-sector collaboration to ensure that digital transformation efforts are equitable, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of underrepresented groups, especially women and marginalized communities.

WTISD is observed globally every year on May 17 to raise awareness about the potential of the Internet and digital technologies to improve lives and close the digital divide. This year’s focus on gender equality added a critical dimension to the conversations, making the panel’s exploration of collaborative models all the more timely and relevant.

IRIIC is proud to have been represented at this meaningful national forum, and we remain committed to driving innovation, inclusion, and impactful partnerships at the intersection of technology and society.