At a seminar in the city to unveil the super-fast 5 g Internet, speakers were unanimous in pointing out the potential of swift internet as a potent catalyst for notable social progress in Bangladesh. The current Internet situation in Bangladesh is overwhelmingly positive since compared to many other developed nations, which have far higher per capita income, Bangladesh’s Internet facilities are more reliable.

In Bangladesh, the broadband connection provided by local operators have given round the clock trustworthy net services in all district plus upazila towns, helping rural entrepreneurs use the Internet to make their businesses come of age. Also, Internet-based commercial enterprises have opened up a wide income generating source for young people daring to shun the conventional employment structure to find a niche in uncharted areas.

This current picture of Internet savvy Bangladesh is a total contrast to the situation only 10 years ago when outside the capital, very few people had access to fast net services. The elevation from 1 g to 4 g has been astounding and the entry into the 5 g arena is well set to take off.

At this optimistic moment, there’s also need for some caution since technology in its superior form can also be abused or misused for destabilizing a country or creating a stumbling block in her aspiration for prosperity. The recent nationwide hacking of the Internet in Singapore should work as a warning. With proper safeguards, such nefarious plans can be countered.

As 5 g enters Bangladesh, the first step would be to carry out a campaign in the remote areas so that the digital Bangladesh mantra can be taken to all corners. The Internet is cheap in Bangladesh which is the biggest advantage; even a person from a lower middle income family can afford to have month long connection at affordable rates.

This means, the world of knowledge and ideas opened to all. Such a chance should be whipped up to spark innovative ideas among our young. The government, working in collaboration with Internet providers, can set up services in all public colleges across the country, in a bid to make the young truly tech savvy.