The Journey Towards Ethical AI
At the Validation Workshop for the Bangladesh AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM), stakeholders came together to review draft findings of the country’s AI diagnostic process. Spearheaded by UNESCO, UNDP Bangladesh, the ICT Division, and a2i, this initiative has been in motion since 2024, aiming to craft a roadmap for AI that benefits all.
What Is RAM?
UNESCO’s AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) is a global tool used in 72+ countries. It evaluates how prepared a country is to govern and develop AI responsibly — assessing policies, infrastructure, inclusion, and institutional frameworks.
In Bangladesh, this will result in a national AI policy report identifying what’s working, what’s missing, and how to ensure AI serves people—not the other way around.
Setting the tone: AI Must Serve Society
Ms. Eunsong Kim, Chief of the Social and Human Sciences Programme at UNESCO South Asia, formally welcomed participants and outlined the objectives of the day. She underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder input in validating the findings and building a collective vision for Bangladesh’s AI readiness—one that reflects both global standards and national values.
Then, Dr. Farig Sadeque, Associate Professor at BRAC University, presented a compelling and data-rich findings which laid out the foundation for an inclusive and ethical AI future. His presentation spotlighted three critical imperatives: the need to bridge the digital divide, address persistent gender and access gaps, and strengthen the governance and infrastructure necessary for responsible AI development.
Leaders Speak: Collaboration at the Core
The session brought together high-level representatives who echoed a shared commitment to inclusive and ethical AI. Among the key speakers were:
Mr. Shish Haider Chowdhury, Secretary, ICT Division
Mr. Md. Mamunur Rashid Bhuiyan, CEO, Aspire to Innovate (a2i)
Mr. Anowarul Haq, Assistant Resident Representative, UNDP Bangladesh
Ms. Sheela Haq, Senior Governance Specialist, UNDP Bangladesh
Dr. Susan Vize, Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh
Their messages converged on a clear consensus: the path to responsible AI in Bangladesh must be built on collaboration, transparency, and national ownership. They collectively emphasized that ethical AI is not a luxury, but a necessity for sustainable and inclusive development—anchored in the country’s priorities and aligned with global human rights principles.
AI as a Social Force
Closing remarks from Ms. Sheela Haq (UNDP) called for a visionary path forward:
“AI must be reimagined as a social force guided by inclusion, ethics, and human dignity. It should empower—not replace—human judgment and ensure that no one is left behind.”
Her call to centre marginalized voices, foster intergenerational dialogue, and address underexplored areas like labour and public governance struck a powerful chord.
Ground Realities: Stakeholders Weigh In
An open discussion allowed participants from across sectors — government, academia, civil society, and industry — to shape the final recommendations. Their insights ensured the strategy reflects local needs, challenges, and aspirations.
Key Takeaways
- Draft findings were validated through national expertise
- Action-oriented recommendations were developed for Bangladesh’s AI policy
- Stakeholders agreed on the need for inclusive, ethical, and accountable AI implementation
What’s Next?
The refined findings will be integrated into Bangladesh’s final AI RAM Report — a cornerstone for future national AI strategies. It will also feed into UNESCO’s Global Observatory on AI Ethics, helping shape responsible tech development worldwide.
