Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said that young innovators are the future of Bangladesh, assuring them that the government will continue to support their research, technological innovations, and startup initiatives.

He made the remarks on Sunday afternoon while meeting the world champion team of the MATE ROV International Underwater Robot Competition 2026 at the Prime Minister’s Office in the Cabinet Division at the Bangladesh Secretariat.

The information was confirmed by the Prime Minister’s Deputy Press Secretary Md. Sujauddoula.

The winning team comprises students from the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST).

According to the Deputy Press Secretary, the Prime Minister congratulated the students on their outstanding international achievement and assured them of the government’s full support for their future research, technological development, and innovation.

Addressing the team, he said, “Innovations like these will take Bangladesh’s technological capabilities to new heights.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that Bangladesh’s future progress depends on innovators, researchers, and technology entrepreneurs.

“If you want to build technology-based startups, the government will provide all necessary support through its startup programs,” he said.

During the meeting, the MIST students demonstrated their award-winning underwater robotic vehicle before the Prime Minister. Tarique Rahman inquired about the robot’s design, technical capabilities, and practical applications.

He also assured the team of government support for further technological development, commercialization of the robot, and participation in future international competitions.

The Prime Minister asked the students about their future plans. They expressed their desire to pursue careers in the technology sector and launch innovative ventures after completing their studies.

Responding to them, Tarique Rahman reiterated that the government would extend all necessary assistance through its startup initiatives to help them establish technology-based businesses.

Highlighting the need to diversify the country’s economy, the Prime Minister said the government is working to strengthen promising sectors such as semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, furniture, and cosmetics, alongside the ready-made garment industry, to build a more diversified export economy.

He noted that the semiconductor industry has been identified as a priority sector, with initiatives underway to attract both domestic and foreign investment and develop a skilled workforce. He also called on Bangladeshi semiconductor professionals working abroad to return home and contribute to the sector’s development.

“Bangladesh will progress even faster if everyone performs their responsibilities with skill and dedication,” the Prime Minister said.

The MATE ROV International Underwater Robot Competition 2026 was held in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, from June 23 to 29, with 88 teams from 18 countries participating.

MIST’s “MIST MAVROV” team emerged as the world champion, outperforming teams from leading universities in the United States, Canada, China, Saudi Arabia, and other countries. The United States finished as runner-up, while Canada secured third place.

The meeting was attended by Defence Adviser Brig. Gen. (Retd.) A.K.M. Shamsul Islam, MIST Commandant Maj. Gen. Md. Hakimuzzaman, Head of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Brig. Gen. K.M. Mostafizur Rahman, and 10 student representatives of the championship-winning team.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS)