Post, Telecommunication, and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam addressed the closing and prize-giving ceremony as the chief guest. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Aug 1, 2026 (BSS) - Post, Telecommunication and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam today said the government eyes to bring opportunities for persons with disabilities to flourish their latent talent through the use of technology.

"We want to build a country where every citizen will become an equal partner in development and progress by harnessing the power of technology," he said.

Faqir, also minister for science and technology, was addressing the closing and prize-giving ceremony of the "National IT Competition for Youth with Disabilities 2026" as the chief guest at the University of Asia Pacific in the capital's Green Road, said a press release. 

Noting that disability is not a limitation, he said young persons with disabilities can also become equal partners in the country's digital transformation and development through proper opportunities, training and technology. 

That is why the government is attaching the highest importance to enhancing their digital skills and technological empowerment, he said.

He said the government is making strides to build a technology-driven Bangladesh where no section of society will be left behind. 

"Our goal is to ensure equal access to technology for all," he said.

The minister said competition is an important platform not only for developing the talents of young persons with disabilities but also for showcasing Bangladesh's capabilities in the international arena.

He hoped that Bangladesh's youths will bring glory to the country at the upcoming Global IT Challenge in Vietnam.

Bangladesh Computer Council Executive Director Nahid Sultana Mallik chaired the event.

A total of 70 contestants took part in the 10th edition of the competition in four categories: 21 visually impaired participants, 25 physically challenged participants, 15 speech and hearing impaired participants and nine participants with Neuro Developmental Disorder (NDD). 

The top three winners from each category, making a total of 12 contestants across the four categories, were awarded prizes.

The national champions selected in the four categories are Md. Shakil Mia in the visually impaired category, Sheikh Yamin Ahsan in the physically challenged category, Nahin Siraj in the speech and hearing impaired category and Arian Islam in the Neuro Developmental Disorder category. 

They earned the opportunity to participate in the Global IT Competition for Youth with Disabilities (GITC), scheduled to be held in Vietnam next October. The minister said he would personally assist the four selected contestants.

Centre for Services and Information on Disability (CSID) Executive Director Khandakar Zahurul Alam, University of Asia Pacific Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. Mohiuddin Ahmed Bhuiyan, University of Asia Pacific Board of Trustees Chairperson K M Mujibul Haque, contestants, their guardians and officials of the Bangladesh Computer Council and the university were present.