At a Dhaka panel discussion on the future of Bangladesh’s education system in the age of artificial intelligence, speakers emphasized the need to develop citizens who are ethical, skilled, and capable of competing in both domestic and global labor markets. The event, organized by the Youth Council of Bangladesh, featured political and educational figures including Dr. Mahdi Amin, Bobby Hajjaj, and Shahriar Chowdhury.

Panelists argued that AI is transforming education, employment, and leadership, making teacher empowerment a national priority. They proposed a 'One Teacher, One Tablet' policy to ensure continuous learning and quality instruction, stressing that technology should strengthen, not replace, teachers. The discussion also addressed education policy reform, digital inequality, and AI’s role in preparing youth for future leadership.

Experts warned that without language proficiency and job-oriented training, Bangladesh may fail to benefit from global employment opportunities in countries like Japan and South Korea. The dialogue underscored the urgency of aligning education with AI-driven economic realities.

At a Dhaka panel discussion on the future of Bangladesh’s education system in the age of artificial intelligence, speakers emphasized the need to develop citizens who are ethical, skilled, and capable of competing in both domestic and global labor markets. The event, organized by the Youth Council of Bangladesh, featured education and policy experts including Dr. Mahdi Amin, Bobby Hajjaj, and Shahriar Chowdhury.

Panelists argued that AI is transforming education, employment, and leadership, making teacher empowerment and continuous learning essential. They proposed a 'One Teacher, One Tablet' initiative to ensure educators can adapt to new technologies and deliver higher-quality instruction. Speakers also noted that countries like Japan and South Korea offer vast job opportunities, but language and skills gaps hinder participation.

The discussion highlighted the urgency of education policy reform, digital inclusion, and AI-driven skill development to prepare Bangladesh’s youth for global competitiveness. Participants called for coordinated national strategies to align education with future labor demands.

Bangladeshi electronics giant Walton has once again been named the country’s number one brand in the refrigerator, air conditioner, and television categories at the 17th Best Brand Awards 2025, organized by Bangladesh Brand Forum. The recognition marks Walton Refrigerator’s 12th consecutive win, Walton TV’s third, and Walton AC’s second in a row, reaffirming the company’s dominance in the domestic electronics market.

At the award ceremony held in Dhaka’s Le Méridien Hotel, Walton executives expressed gratitude to customers, dealers, and employees. Chief Marketing Officer Zoheb Ahmed highlighted Walton’s vision to transform Bangladesh into a global hub for AI- and IoT-based smart electronics manufacturing. The company is integrating advanced technologies into its products and has already expanded exports to over 50 countries, aiming to reach 100 markets.

The Best Brand Awards use the global “Winning Brands” methodology, evaluating consumer perception, brand equity, and market share. Walton’s continued recognition, alongside other national and international honors, strengthens its ambition to become one of the world’s leading smart electronics brands.

James Cameron’s long-awaited science fiction sequel, *Avatar: Fire and Ash*, premiered worldwide yesterday, marking a synchronized release in Bangladesh’s Star Cineplex alongside major global markets. The film continues the saga of the Sully family, exploring grief, identity, and survival amid new threats on Pandora. Critics at a London preview praised its visual scale and reaffirmed the cinematic importance of large-screen storytelling.

Cameron revealed at a Paris press conference that the film delves into themes of displacement and the search for belonging, aiming to connect emotionally with audiences. Composer Simon Franglen spent seven years crafting the score, writing over 1,900 pages of notation and inventing new instruments for Pandora’s inhabitants. Early reviews highlight the film’s technological innovation and emotional depth.

The director noted that the commercial success of *Fire and Ash* will determine the future trajectory of the *Avatar* franchise, which has already grossed billions worldwide through its previous installments.

The United States has suspended its technology cooperation agreement with the United Kingdom, known as the Tech Prosperity Deal, which was designed to strengthen collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and civilian nuclear energy. The Financial Times reported that the suspension occurred last week, with British officials confirming the move.

According to the report, the Trump administration is pressuring the UK to make broader trade concessions beyond the technology partnership. US officials have grown frustrated with London’s reluctance to ease non-tariff barriers, including regulations on food and industrial products. A UK government spokesperson emphasized that the “special relationship” remains strong and reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to ensuring the deal benefits workers in both nations.

The suspension marks a setback for transatlantic tech cooperation at a time when both countries are seeking to expand their roles in emerging technologies. Analysts suggest the pause could delay joint research initiatives and investment flows, though negotiations may resume if trade disputes are resolved.

In the run-up to Bangladesh’s upcoming national election, political parties are facing a surge of misinformation and propaganda on social media. False and distorted information, often spread using AI-generated content and fake media photo cards, has become a major concern for parties such as Jamaat-e-Islami, BNP, and Islami Andolon Bangladesh. The rapid spread of fabricated statements and doctored visuals has extended from online platforms to mainstream television talk shows, creating confusion among voters and embarrassment for political leaders.

Party officials and digital experts warn that the misuse of AI tools and fake news tactics is undermining public trust and destabilizing the pre-election environment. Jamaat leaders have urged the Election Commission and government to ensure a level playing field by curbing disinformation, while fact-checkers report that much of the content originates both domestically and from abroad, particularly India. Analysts caution that without strict enforcement and public awareness, the disinformation wave could intensify, posing risks to electoral integrity and political stability in the coming months.

Aditya Dhar’s new film *DhuranDhar*, released on December 5 across Indian cinemas, has ignited intense political and social debate. The three-hour spy thriller revisits major terror incidents such as the 1999 Kandahar hijacking, the 2001 Parliament attack, and the 2008 Mumbai attacks. While audiences have praised its cinematic scale and storytelling, critics argue that the film carries hyper-nationalist overtones and religious bias, prompting bans in several Gulf countries.

Political reactions have been sharply divided. Congress MP Tariq Anwar accused the film of promoting Islamophobia, while BJP leaders defended it as a factual portrayal of terrorism. Actor Hrithik Roshan publicly expressed discomfort with the movie’s political stance. Analysts note that Dhar’s work, including his earlier *Uri: The Surgical Strike*, aligns with government narratives on national security and patriotism.

Experts suggest *DhuranDhar* reflects a broader trend of Bollywood films reinforcing state ideology since 2014. Its upcoming second part, due in March, is expected to reignite debates over religion, nationalism, and the politicization of Indian cinema.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has issued an apology for comments he made during a meeting in Dhaka’s Naya Paltan area. In a statement released to the media on Saturday night, Rizvi acknowledged that his earlier remarks were based on misinformation circulating on social media.

He clarified that two viral posts — one showing a fabricated news clip with the RTV logo and another depicting a Dhaka University student leader having tea with a suspect in an attack — were both AI-generated and baseless. Rizvi admitted that he had not fact-checked the content before referencing it in his speech earlier in the day.

The incident highlights growing concerns about AI-generated misinformation influencing political discourse in Bangladesh. Analysts note that this case underscores the urgent need for political figures and the public to verify digital content before sharing or commenting on it.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, has warned that any street demonstrations or unjustified demands following the announcement of the 13th National Parliamentary Election schedule will face strict action. Speaking at a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, he urged political groups to avoid disruptive programs after the schedule is declared.

Alam noted that since the interim government assumed office, around two thousand protests have occurred, but law enforcement has refrained from using rubber bullets, relying instead on tear gas and hot water dispersal. He emphasized that any post-schedule protests would be suppressed firmly and participants would face legal consequences. The advisory council also approved several key administrative and economic measures during its latest meeting.

Addressing another issue, Alam said the misuse of artificial intelligence technologies has led to a rise in fraud cases, damaging Bangladesh’s reputation abroad. The Chief Adviser has instructed authorities to take decisive action against those involved in AI-related fraud schemes.

Google co-founder Larry Page has climbed to the second spot on Forbes’ list of the world’s richest individuals, surpassing Oracle’s Larry Ellison. As of December 1, Page’s net worth reached $262 billion, marking a $30 billion increase in just one month. The rapid growth of Alphabet’s artificial intelligence ventures has been a key factor behind his wealth surge.

Despite market volatility, the dominance of technology leaders in global wealth rankings remains evident, with nine of the top ten billionaires coming from the tech sector. Page, 52, has largely withdrawn from public appearances and Alphabet’s daily operations, focusing instead on futuristic projects such as the flying taxi startup Kitty Hawk. In contrast, peers like Mark Zuckerberg maintain a more public profile.

Elon Musk continues to hold the top position with an estimated $483 billion, despite controversies over Tesla’s compensation package and valuation debates around xAI. The combined wealth of the top ten billionaires stands at $2.4 trillion, underscoring the enduring influence of technology in global capital markets.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has strongly criticized the growing trend of dishonoring women, attacking dissenting voices, and misusing artificial intelligence on social media. In a verified post on December 10, he emphasized that political differences should never turn into hostility and urged people to maintain decency and respect in online interactions.

Dr. Rahman cited Islamic teachings that prohibit mockery and abusive language, stressing that believers must speak kindly and avoid defaming others. He expressed concern that such behavior, especially from those identifying with religious values, undermines moral and social integrity.

Calling for restraint and ethical engagement, the Jamaat chief reminded followers that every word is accountable before God. He urged citizens to build a society based on logic and civility rather than hatred, warning that the misuse of technology and AI to spread disrespect poses a serious moral challenge.

Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet has sharply criticized Hollywood’s growing dependence on plastic surgery, expressing concern that young performers are chasing unrealistic beauty ideals for social media approval. In a recent interview, the 'Titanic' star said she finds it alarming that many actors and ordinary women are resorting to cosmetic procedures, often without understanding the health risks involved.

Winslet argued that self-worth should not depend solely on appearance, noting that she admires women who embrace aging naturally. She recalled facing harsh body-shaming after 'Titanic’s' success, including cruel remarks from television hosts and industry figures. The actress said such experiences shaped her determination to speak out against beauty-related bullying and the toxic standards imposed on women in entertainment.

Her comments have reignited debate about body image, ageism, and the influence of social media on self-perception. Industry observers say Winslet’s stance could encourage more open discussions about authenticity and mental health in Hollywood.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced Monday that he reached an agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping allowing Nvidia to export its H200 artificial intelligence chips to China. The decision marks a major shift from the Biden administration’s strict export controls, which had limited advanced chip sales over national security concerns and potential military use by China.

Democratic lawmakers sharply criticized the move, warning it could strengthen China’s military and economic capabilities. Trump said the exports would proceed under conditions ensuring U.S. national security and that 25% of the chip sales revenue from China would return to the United States, though he provided no details on enforcement. Nvidia welcomed the decision, calling it a boost for high-paying jobs and U.S. competitiveness.

The deal excludes Nvidia’s most advanced Blackwell and Rubin chips, which remain restricted to U.S. customers. Analysts say the policy shift could reshape the global AI chip market and reignite debates over balancing innovation with security risks.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced plans to incorporate artificial intelligence and stealth technologies into its missile development programs. Major General Mohammad Pakpour, head of the IRGC’s ground forces, said the initiative aims to enhance Iran’s ability to penetrate enemy defense systems. Speaking at Imam Hossein University in Tehran, he emphasized that modern technologies could significantly alter battlefield dynamics by improving intelligence gathering, surveillance, and precision strike capabilities.

Pakpour referenced Iran’s 12-day conflict with Israel earlier this year, claiming that despite facing opponents equipped with advanced military technology, Iran’s missile operations and internal unity forced adversaries to seek a ceasefire. He asserted that Iran’s military power is now more visible and formidable than ever before, warning that any future attack on the country would provoke a stronger and more destructive response.

Analysts view the move as part of Iran’s broader strategy to modernize its defense capabilities amid regional tensions and international sanctions limiting access to foreign military technology.

Bangladeshi actor Omar Sani has issued a strong response to singer Asif Akbar after the latter made personal remarks about him during a recent podcast. The dispute began last month when Asif faced criticism for his comments about national football and players, prompting reactions from several celebrities, including Sani. In the podcast, Asif described Sani as a 'simple man' and 'woman-dominated', while also making comments about his personal life, though he later softened his tone by saying 'I love him'.

In a Facebook video message posted Monday morning, Omar Sani condemned Asif’s remarks, stating he had never spoken ill of Asif’s personal life and only commented on professional matters. He warned Asif against involving family issues in public discussions and challenged him to address disagreements face-to-face. Sani further urged Asif to maintain dignity and respect, reminding him that fame should be accompanied by humility.

The exchange has drawn attention across social media, reflecting ongoing tensions between entertainment figures and the boundaries of personal commentary in public discourse.