BM Report:
Delivering a keynote address at the Empower 2023 summit organized by the Odawani Foundation, National University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Mashiur Rahman emphasized the importance of inclusive technology for building a just and equitable society.
“To establish a society of justice and equality, the benefits of technology must be ensured for all,” stated Dr. Rahman. “Steps should be taken so that people from all walks of life can enjoy this benefit.”
He highlighted the need to bridge the skill gap and provide competency-based training to cater to the changing job market. This, he argued, would create a win-win situation for both employers and job seekers.
Recognizing the digital divide within society, Dr. Rahman stressed the collective responsibility to bring underprivileged communities into the mainstream. “We must utilize technology to create an inclusive society by ensuring its benefits reach everyone,” he stated.
Drawing parallels to global crises like the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflicts, Dr. Rahman lamented the failure to prioritize humanity and peace. “We hoped for a post-Covid world where humanity would prevail, where war and conflict would be abolished,” he said. “Unfortunately, the reality is different. We have witnessed the devastating wars in Ukraine and Palestine, where innocent civilians, including children and women, continue to suffer.”
While expressing his disappointment in the developed countries’ involvement in these conflicts, Dr. Rahman reiterated his vision for a peaceful and inclusive world. “We wanted a world where humanity comes first, where societies are built upon inclusion and collaboration, and where peace prevails across the globe,” he remarked.
In a direct appeal to the Odawani Foundation, Dr. Rahman pledged his support for their initiatives benefiting marginalized students of the National University. “We are committed to building a nation driven by science, information technology, prosperity, and self-respect,” he declared. “We welcome the Odawani Foundation’s collaboration in empowering our students and contribute to achieving this vision.”
The Empower 2023 summit served as a platform for discussions on AI-powered skills development for a future-ready workforce. With Dr. Rahman’s key address highlighting the importance of inclusivity and equity in the digital landscape, the event provided valuable insights and perspectives for building a more just and prosperous society.
