Prof. Md. Abdus Shakoor, Chairman of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU). Photo : BSS

By Borun Kumar Dash and Abdur Rouf

DHAKA, Dec 22, 2025 (BSS) – A new era in Bangladesh’s medical science has dawned with the launch of the country’s first AI-powered robotic rehabilitation centre, offering renewed hope to patients battling paralysis, long-term neurological disorders, and complex bone and joint diseases.

Already, 30 to 35 patients are being treated every day in the facility being run with the technical and financial support from the Chinese government. 

The state-of-the-art center has been set up at the Super Specialized Hospital of Bangladesh Medical University (BMU). Those injured in the July mass uprising are receiving treatment free of cost in this world-class robotic treatment centre.

When asked about the activities of the center, Prof. Md. Abdus Shakoor, Chairman of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at BMU and focal person of the Robotic Rehabilitation Center, said there are a total of 62 devices, of which 57 are robots and five are physical therapy training beds. 

Among the 57 robots, 22 are fully artificial intelligence-based or AI-powered, he said adding these robots will assist in the process of “neuroplasticity,” or reconstruction of damaged nerves in the brain, which is far more effective than conventional physiotherapy.

Prof Shakoor said to restore normal walking ability in patients with stroke or spinal cord injury; they have ‘ZEPU AI1 & 9’, known as gait training robots. 

In addition, ‘ZEPU AI2’ and ‘ZEPU AI3’ will be used to precisely restore the functional ability of hands and legs and provide feedback, he added.

At the same time, the center has a multi-joint constant speed training system ‘ZEPU AI4’ and advanced robotic technology, which will enable patients to practice walking in an extremely precise and natural manner, he said.

Unlike conventional treatment, these robots are capable of providing long-duration therapy, he said.

According to sources, the Chinese government has donated robotic equipment worth about Taka 25 crore for this project. 

In terms of technology, this center will be one of the most modern robotic rehabilitation centers in South Asia, marking a revolutionary milestone in Bangladesh’s healthcare sector. Through these robots, it will be possible to provide highly precise physiotherapy, neurological rehabilitation, and long-term treatment according to the patient’s condition.

BMU authorities said that, to run the center, 29 doctors and physiotherapists have already been trained under the leadership of a special expert team of seven biomedical engineers from China. Once the trained manpower gains experience and skills and the necessary activities are successfully completed, the center will be fully operational.

This robotic center will benefit patients who are undergoing complex rehabilitation processes due to stroke, paralysis, neurological disorders, chronic pain, nerve injuries, frozen shoulder, accident-related complications, or weakness of body parts.

With the launch of this center, Bangladesh has entered a new era of modern technology-based rehabilitation treatment. For the country’s healthcare system, this is not just a technological advancement, but will also become a ray of hope in the lives of people suffering from paralysis and long-term illnesses.

Earlier, at the inauguration of the Robotic Rehabilitation Center, Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum said, “This center of the university is not just a place for curing diseases, but a place where many dreams will be realized. The Chinese government has donated robots worth about Taka 25 crore here, and our doctors and healthcare workers have been given special training to operate them.”

The adviser said that those injured in the July movement, especially those whose tendons in hands and legs have been severed or who are suffering from neurological problems due to gunshot wounds, will receive free services here on a priority basis.

Meanwhile, alongside providing state-of-the-art technology to Bangladesh, 27 staff members of BMU have been given special training. 

Moreover, the Chinese government has launched a green channel to facilitate medical services in China for Bangladeshi citizens. 

As a result, Bangladeshis will be able to go to China and get the fastest possible opportunities for health check-ups and diagnosis.

BMU authorities said that, under the supervision of experienced physicians, general patients will also be able to receive this advanced service at a nominal cost. As a result, those suffering from various neurological, bone, and joint diseases and paralysis will no longer need to go abroad for treatment, the concerned officials expressed hope.