IRIIC UIU

The Innovation Conclave 2025 focused on building an innovation ecosystem for Bangladesh, from research to commercialization. This program was organized by ICT Division, Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority, The World Bank, and several other institutions.

Key Attendees:

• MR. Shish Haider Chowdhury, Secretary, Ministry of ICT
• Prof. Dr. Abul Kashem Mia, Vice Chancellor, United International University
• Monjur Mohammad Shahriar, Project Director, DEIED

• Dr. Md. Monsur Alam, Deputy Project Director, DEIED
• A.N.M Shafiqul Islam, Innovation and Commercialization Specialist (ICS), DEIED
• Prof. Dr. Khondaker Abdullah-Al-Mamun, Director, IRIIC, United International University
• Delegates from: Khulna University, Bangladesh Agricultural University, BRAC University, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology, Gopalganj University of Science and Technology, University of Chittagong, Varendra University, American International University of Bangladesh, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology, and members of innovation hubs from various universities. 

Highlights of the Event:

• Secretary, Ministry of ICT
  • Focused on capacity building and sustainability, with an emphasis on leveraging AI, IoT, and Blockchain.
  • Stressed the importance of collaboration to scale innovation hubs.
  • Highlighted the need for actionable plans and project handover for continuity.
• Director, IRIIC, United International University
  • Talked about the role of universities in fostering collaborations and addressing national challenges through research.
  • Emphasized the importance of entrepreneurial leadership and business models.
  • Advocated for building a national innovation ecosystem and involving organizations like UGC and FBCCI.
• Joint Director, CED, BRAC University
  • Discussed the institutionalization of innovation hubs and their alignment with local industries.
  • Highlighted the need for strong entrepreneurial leadership to guide innovation.
• Professor, Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology
  • Stressed collaboration between industry and universities to foster trust and create entrepreneurs.
  • Called for government intervention to address commercialization gaps in public universities.

• Project Director, DEIED
  • Emphasized collaboration among academia, business, and government to foster innovation.
  • Suggested initiatives like student visits to innovation hubs and more discussion meetups.