Events

World Bank Delegation Visits IRIIC at UIU to Explore Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Bangladesh

February 15, 2025

On February 12, 2025, the Institute of Research, Innovation, Incubation and Commercialization (IRIIC) at United International University (UIU) proudly hosted a high-level delegation from The World Bank, marking a significant moment in UIU’s journey to advance research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. The visit was led by Mr. Martin Raiser, Regional Vice President for the South Asia Region, alongside Ms. Gayle Martin, Interim Country Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, and included a distinguished team of senior officials specializing in finance, investment, economic development, and private sector competitiveness.

The event began with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Abul Kashem Mia, Honorable Vice Chancellor of UIU, followed by presentations and demonstrations of IRIIC’s flagship innovations. Prof. Khondaker Abdullah Al Mamun, Director of IRIIC, introduced key research projects including the Smart AI Reception Assistant (SARA), Mindwave Neuromarketing Platform, and Suswastho.AI—highlighting how these solutions are using artificial intelligence to transform healthcare, consumer behavior analysis, and smart service delivery.

In an engaging session with students, faculty, and invited guests, the delegation explored the role of universities like UIU in shaping Bangladesh’s startup ecosystem. Discussions centered on how academic research is being translated into real-world impact, particularly through student-led ventures and cross-disciplinary collaboration fostered under IRIIC’s University Innovation Hub Program.

The visiting delegates included:

  1. Mr. Mathew A. Verghis, Regional Director, Prosperity Practice Group
  2. Dr. Souleymane Coulibaly, Country Lead Economist and Program Leader, Prosperity
  3. Ms. Sophie Dong, Financial Sector Specialist, FCI, SAR
  4. Ms. Mehrin A. Mahbub, Senior External Affairs Officer, The World Bank
  5. Mr. Gabi George Afram, Finance, Competitiveness, and Investment (FCI), SAR
  6. Ms. Hosna Ferdous Sumi, Senior Private Sector Specialist, FCI, SAR
  7. Ms. Georgia Louise McNally, Junior Professional Associate, SARVP Office
  8. Mr. Md. Faruk Hossain, Program Associate, Prosperity

The World Bank team expressed strong appreciation for IRIIC’s dynamic innovation environment and the potential of Bangladesh’s youth to drive technological advancement and inclusive economic growth. They emphasized the need for greater investment in university-led innovation programs and acknowledged UIU’s leadership in creating a vibrant, impact-driven ecosystem that bridges research, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration.

The visit not only showcased the strength of IRIIC’s initiatives but also deepened institutional ties between UIU and The World Bank, setting the stage for future collaboration in innovation-led development. It was a proud moment for UIU, reflecting its growing role as a national and global hub for innovation and change.