Education Minister Ehchanul Haque Milon emphasized the need to expand the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to develop Bangladesh’s textile sector. Speaking on Saturday at the Fourth International Conference on Textile Science and Engineering at the Bangladesh University of Textiles campus in Tejgaon, Dhaka, he described the textile industry as one of the country’s most vital sectors and noted that Bangladesh ranks second globally in garment exports.

The minister said Bangladesh aims to lead the global textile industry through increased research and innovative ideas beyond traditional practices. He highlighted the inclusion of textile studies in private universities and stressed the importance of modern laboratories to help students compete internationally. Milon also underscored the need to strengthen green textile and recycling initiatives.

The event was chaired by Bangladesh University of Textiles Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Julhas Uddin, with University Grants Commission Chairman Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed attending as special guest. Earlier, the minister inaugurated the 2026 tree plantation program at the university as part of a nationwide initiative to plant 250 million trees over five years.