Government Launches Modern Information Complex Project to Advance Smart Bangladesh Initiative

The government has launched a project to construct a state-of-the-art information complex in Barisal, marking a strategic shift from a digital nation toward a “Smart Bangladesh.” Minister of Information and Broadcasting Zahir Uddin Swapan inaugurated the construction of the facility in the Kashipur area of Barisal on Sunday, emphasizing that the hub will serve as more than a government broadcasting center.

The project, overseen by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and implemented by the Department of Architecture and the Public Works Department, is budgeted at approximately 176.39 million taka. It is designed to function as a multipurpose facility for preserving historical and cultural heritage, operating a digital library, and serving as a hub for youth technological development.

Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Mahbuba Farzana presided over the inaugural ceremony. According to Public Works Department officials, the government plans to construct seven-story information complexes in all seven divisional cities, alongside five-story facilities in 19 district towns. These complexes are intended to decentralize digital services, enhance information preservation, and foster knowledge-based activities across the country.

During the event, Minister Swapan highlighted the rapid evolution of global information technology, stressing the necessity for the youth to adapt to technological advancements. He stated that the Barisal facility will be equipped with modern tools to help young citizens develop high-level skills, noting that the government aims to elevate these complexes to international standards by prioritizing software development and knowledge-based infrastructure.

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The minister also unveiled plans for a centralized digital library that will connect all divisional, district, and upazila-level information complexes, ensuring uniform access to information across the nation. The facility will further feature a large-scale data center and advanced technology labs to manage the vast influx of information in the modern era.

Addressing the current information landscape, Swapan noted that the challenge is no longer a scarcity of data but the management of an uncontrolled flow. He emphasized that by leveraging artificial intelligence and digital resources, the government aims to transform this information wealth into a national asset.

The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Director General of the Department of Mass Communication Abdul Jalil, Barisal Divisional Commissioner Khalil Ahmed, Deputy Inspector General of Barisal Range Police Zulfikar Ali Haider, Barisal City Corporation Administrator Bilkis Akter Jahan Shirin, and Barisal Metropolitan Police Commissioner Abu Rayhan Muhammad Saleh.