The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the landscape of workplaces worldwide, and Bangladesh is no exception. Although the pace is somewhat slower compared to developed countries, the winds of change have begun to blow in Bangladesh as well. Various institutions in the country are now turning to AI-based technologies to increase work efficiency and reduce operational costs. This has led to the creation of new types of jobs and skill demands, particularly in the information technology, creative sectors, content writing, customer service, and manufacturing industries.
In this transitional reality, the question arises: which sectors in Bangladesh are most at risk of change? And what kind of preparation do professionals need to survive in this changing market?
AI's Growing Influence in Bangladesh
The sectors where AI usage is most visible in Bangladesh include banking, telecommunications, media, and customer service. This technology is primarily being used for complex data analysis, streamlining recruitment processes, fraud detection, chatbot management, quality control, and content creation. Additionally, its use in the education and healthcare sectors is increasing day by day.
Among the tools being used, 'ChatGPT', which has garnered global attention, is the most popular in this country. It is being used for various tasks ranging from content writing, institutional research, translation, to coding. Alongside this, the use of visual tools like Canva's AI features, Adobe Firefly, and Midjourney is increasing in the design and marketing sectors.
However, the use of AI in most domestic institutions is still in the experimental phase. Market stakeholders believe that it will take on a massive scale within the next few years. Fahim Mashrur, Executive Director of BDJobs, a leading job portal in the country, says, 'The impact of AI in our country will mainly be on "white-collar" or office jobs. Its direct impact on the technical or manufacturing sectors is currently minimal. However, new jobs will also be created due to AI. Our main focus should be on increasing technical and new skills, then the fear of AI will disappear.'
The Debate Over Job Losses Due to AI
There is a global debate about the fear of job losses due to artificial intelligence. However, according to various international research and experts, even if some traditional jobs decrease, more new technology-based job opportunities will be created. Currently, jobs like data entry and clerical work, primary-level customer service or telemarketing, and general graphic design and transcription are at the highest risk. On the other hand, sectors like data science, AI engineering, cybersecurity, automation management, and strategic decision-making and higher creative work are considered relatively safe and emerging.
However, the biggest change is coming in the nature of work rather than the number of jobs decreasing or increasing. According to a recent report by CNN, work that was previously done by one person alone is now being done in parts by AI, humans, and new technology-based tools in combination.
The Need for Skill Development
According to experts, in the future job market, just having an institutional degree or specific technical knowledge will not be enough. Basic understanding of AI usage and digital literacy is becoming mandatory in almost all professions. In the future market, along with data analysis, programming, cybersecurity, and digital marketing, the value of some human qualities will increase manifold. These include critical thinking, problem-solving skills, effective communication and teamwork skills, and creative decision-making abilities.
According to analysts, the biggest qualification in the future job market will be the ability to learn new skills regularly and adapt quickly to technological changes.
Education and AI
Despite the increasing demand, Bangladesh's public universities have not yet introduced a full-fledged department dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI). However, various AI-related courses are being offered under the Computer Science and Information Technology departments. Meanwhile, some private universities in the country have introduced separate AI departments, creating a stir.
Mohammad Anwar Hossain, a member of the University Grants Commission (UGC), told Prothom Alo, 'Our public universities are somewhat lagging in market-oriented education planning. However, BUET, Dhaka University, and Shahjalal University of Science and Technology have taken some commendable steps in this regard. We also urge other universities to revise their curriculum and give utmost importance to the subject of AI.'
AI is not just creating risks in Bangladesh's job market, but also big opportunities. However, to capitalize on these opportunities, coordination between the education system, the industrial sector, and policymakers is essential.
