Bangladesh to Deploy AI for Faster Government Project Delivery and Greater Transparency

Government Adopts AI to Accelerate Project Delivery

Bangladesh is set to launch a Tk 316 crore reform programme that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to speed up the planning, approval, and execution of government projects. Supported by the World Bank, this initiative aims to digitise and streamline government spending management, addressing long-standing delays.

The initiative is expected to clear the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) meeting today. The new system will introduce a single digital platform for end-to-end project processing, embedding AI into decision-making, monitoring, and risk management to tackle chronic inefficiencies.

Addressing Project Delays with AI

Currently, project preparation and approval take about three years on average, leading to over 1,000 projects requiring revisions or deadline extensions annually. The proposed system will integrate existing platforms like IBAS++ (Integrated Budget and Accounting System) and e-PMIS (electronic Project Management Information System), creating a centralised hub for real-time data exchange across government agencies.

AI tools will analyse project data to detect delays and implementation issues early. Civil servants will receive training in AI analytics, cybersecurity, and risk management to adapt effectively. Approximately 36% of the budget will fund ICT equipment and software, 20% will support local and international training, and 28% will cover consultancy services.

Other Projects on ECNEC’s Agenda

• Procurement Modernisation for Public Service Delivery (Tk 552 crore)
  This project, partially financed by the World Bank (Tk 433 crore), will upgrade the electronic government procurement (e-GP) system. Enhancements include a new data centre, contract management tools, updated modules, and online training platforms. Emerging technologies such as AI and machine learning will improve transparency and enable real-time analytics to support evidence-based procurement decisions. The project also focuses on professionalising procurement and promoting sustainable, eco-friendly processes.
• Water, Sanitation, and Waste Management for Rohingya Refugees and Host Communities (Tk 652 crore)
  Supported by a Tk 420 crore grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), this programme targets Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char. It includes building pipelines, installing household water connections, enhancing surface water reservoirs, and establishing waste management systems in refugee camps.
• TVET Teachers for the Future Programme (Tk 2,009 crore)
  The Asian Development Bank plans to finance Tk 1,800 crore of this project aimed at improving technical and vocational education teacher quality. Bangladesh currently employs 55,304 TVET teachers, with women representing 21%. The programme will provide specialised training in five key technology areas aligned with future industry needs: electrical and electronics, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science and engineering, and agriculture and food.

This suite of projects highlights the government’s commitment to leveraging technology and training to improve service delivery and project execution efficiency.

For government professionals seeking to deepen their AI skills and support such initiatives, exploring courses in AI analytics and project management can be beneficial. Resources like Complete AI Training's job-focused courses offer practical guidance tailored for public sector roles.