DHAKA, Dec 1, 2025 (BSS) - The Future Nation Summit 2025 was held at the National Science and Technology Complex at Agargaon the city, organised by UNDP Bangladesh yesterday.

With participation from youth across 64 districts, along with representatives from government, industry, academia and development partners, the daylong summit formally launched the Frontier Technology Leadership Training, a key initiative of UNDP's Future Nation Programme to equip young people with future-ready technology skills.

Speaking as the Chief Guest, Md. Anwar Hossain, Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology, said, "The future of industrialization and technological leadership lies in the hands of our youth. This initiative will help them gain internationally recognised skills."

Special guests included Yasir Azman, CEO of Grameenphone, and Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, along with representatives from public and private sectors, said a press release.

Through this training, 1,500 students and faculty members from 75 universities across the country will have the opportunity to enrol in a one-year Harvard course covering AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Cybersecurity and other emerging technology areas. 

The initiative aims to prepare young people for specialized technology-based jobs both at home and abroad.

The summit also featured three high-level panel discussions on industrial transformation, research and youth entrepreneurship. Experts highlighted the importance of youth skills, modern technology knowledge, research infrastructure and innovation to drive the future industrial economy.

In the interactive "Design the Future" session, youth participants from across the country presented innovative solutions on future industries, technology, employment and environmental challenges.

The closing session was attended by Mohammad Monirul Islam, Additional Secretary of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Ministry, as Chief Guest. Stephen Forbes, Director of the British Council Bangladesh, attended as Special Guest.