The government has outlined an ambitious plan to strengthen science, technology and research as part of its strategy to develop a technology-driven skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).
According to the budget document, priority has been given to addressing the challenges of automation and creating opportunities through emerging technologies, with emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, advanced research and innovation.
The government said, in line with its Election Manifesto 2026, it aims to foster a science-oriented nation by producing a technology-driven workforce and promoting modern, employment oriented education.
As part of this strategy, STEM education will be expanded to the grassroots level, while research activities will be aligned with global market demand to improve employability and commercial outcomes.
The budget document said the government has moved beyond conventional research models by introducing the Research to Market (R2M) and Innovate to Market (I2M) approaches, under which innovations, technologies and research products will receive direct support for commercialisation.
The government also plans to establish national capabilities in several frontier technologies including space research, semiconductor technology, earthquake and seismographic research.
To prepare young people for future industries, specialised laboratories for Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, robotics, machine learning and big data analysis will be established, according to the budget paper.
Officials believe these facilities will help equip students and researchers with practical skills required in rapidly evolving global technology sectors.
Plans have been taken to strengthen geological research for exploring Rare Earth Elements (REEs) in coastal and riverine island areas, while offshore wind energy potential will be mapped through wind flow analysis in shallow coastal waters.
The government will also continue coral restoration programmes on Saint Martin’s Island as part of its sustainable scientific research agenda.
According to the budget document, the Oceanographic Research Institute is conducting research to unlock opportunities in the country’s Blue Economy.
To encourage scientific curiosity among young people, the government plans to establish modern Novo Theatres in Khulna, Chattogram, Sylhet, Barishal, Rangpur and Mymensingh, in addition to the existing facilities in Dhaka and Rajshahi. The Novo Theatre in Dhaka will also be further modernised.
Science centres will be established in every district in phases to expand access to science education and public engagement.
The Ministry of Science and Technology will continue organising the Bangladesh Innovation Fair to promote innovation among young researchers and entrepreneurs.
The government also plans to continue providing grants and financial assistance for research projects in textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and innovative technologies.
Highlighting recent achievements, the budget noted that Bangladeshi scientists have, for the first time, successfully decoded the complete genome sequences of indigenous Mirakadim cattle, sheep and ducks using domestic expertise.
It also said the Biotechnology Institute is developing climate resilient and high yielding crop varieties through genome editing technology to strengthen food security.
In the healthcare sector, the government has undertaken a comprehensive programme to provide affordable technology based nuclear medicine services across the country.
An Integrated Nuclear Medicine Information System based on online networking will connect 22 Nuclear Medicine Institutes, including the National Institute, enabling improved delivery of both general and specialised nuclear medical services.
The budget emphasised that research remains indispensable for developing new technologies and enhancing national competitiveness.
To sustain research excellence, the government will continue extending financial support to researchers through the Science and Technology Fellowship Trust, aiming to create world class research opportunities both within Bangladesh and abroad.