Defense Adviser Brigadier General (Ret.) Dr. A K M Shamsul Islam has called for enhancing cyber capabilities, creating skilled manpower, and strengthening domestic technology innovation to ensure the security of the country's critical information and digital infrastructure.
National
Cyber capability and domestic innovation must be given new momentum: Defense Adviser
He made this call during a visit to the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) in Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka, on Monday (July 20) morning.
Upon arrival at MIST, the institute's Commandant, Major General Md. Hakimuzzaman, welcomed the Defense Adviser. During the visit, he was briefed on MIST's modern educational programs, cybersecurity, research, patents, and various technological innovation activities.
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The Defense Adviser first visited MIST's Cyber Range. The head of the Computer Science and Engineering department highlighted the Cyber Range's capabilities, training programs, research opportunities, and future plans.
Dr. A K M Shamsul Islam said that in today's world, a country's security is not limited to geographical boundaries. The security of information, communication systems, and critical digital infrastructure is also an essential part of national security.
He emphasized building skilled human resources in cybersecurity as well as fostering effective coordination among educational institutions, government agencies, and the domestic technology sector.
As part of the visit, the Defense Adviser exchanged views with members of MIST's MAVIROV team. The team members presented their innovative activities, technical capabilities, and future plans.
Later, MIST's Research and Development (R&D) wing presented various activities related to patents and innovations. This showcased technologies invented by teachers, researchers, and students, research concepts, and various practical solutions.
It is noteworthy that MIST's MATEROV team achieved the honor of becoming champion at the MATEROV International Underwater Robot Competition 2026, held in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, from June 23 to 27. In this international competition with 77 teams from 16 countries, the team secured the top position through innovative thinking, engineering skills, problem-solving ability, and exceptional teamwork.
The Defense Adviser said that research success cannot be confined to reports or exhibitions. Effective research must be transformed into patents, usable technologies, and domestic products. This will increase the country's technological capability, reduce foreign dependence, and create new employment opportunities.
He emphasized ensuring necessary research facilities, training, guidance, and institutional support for young innovators. He also called for further expanding the scope of research to solve real-world problems in public welfare, disaster management, cybersecurity, health, agriculture, and industry sectors.
MIST officials informed the Defense Adviser about the institute's ongoing education, research activities, technical capabilities, and future development plans. He praised the innovative efforts of teachers, researchers, students, and concerned officials.
After the visit, the Defense Adviser participated in a photo session with members of the MAVIROV team and concerned MIST officials.