Dhaka (Agencies): The 23rd Science Council of Asia Conference (SCAC) convened in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from November 30 to December 3, under the theme “Fourth Industrial Revolution and Future Society.” Organized by the Bangladesh Academy of Sciences in collaboration with the Science Council of Asia and supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Bangladesh, the event brought together leading experts to address the transformative role of technology in modern society.
Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH and Vice President of the World Academy of Sciences (South and Central Asia), delivered a keynote address emphasizing that socioeconomic development today is driven by knowledge and technological innovation rather than natural resources. Highlighting findings from a 2019 McKinsey Global Institute report, he noted that disruptive technologies—such as artificial intelligence, IoT, robotics, and genomics—are projected to generate over $33 trillion in wealth by 2025.
Prof. Choudhary warned, however, that much of this progress remains concentrated in the Global North, leaving many developing nations struggling with challenges such as superstition and limited access to advanced education. Quoting Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum, he underscored the exponential pace of technological evolution in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is transforming global systems of production, management, and governance.
In his remarks, he also called for bipartisan political support for science, technology, and education, stressing the need for increased investment in research and development, greater female participation in science, and stronger intellectual property protections.
During his visit to Dhaka, Prof. Choudhary engaged in discussions with senior officials from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Science and Technology. These meetings underscored mutual interest in strengthening collaboration between Bangladesh and COMSTECH, with both parties committing to advancing science and technology initiatives for the shared benefit of their populations.
As part of COMSTECH’s broader vision, Prof. Choudhary highlighted initiatives such as scholarships, research grants, and training programs designed to nurture young talent in member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). He proposed joint programs with the Asian Science Council to empower young scholars and promote sustainable development.
The conference concluded with a reaffirmation of the critical role of science, technology, and innovation in shaping equitable and prosperous futures for all nations.