The closing ceremony of the Training of Trainers (ToT) program on software architecture was held on November 21, 2024, at the Ascott Palace in Baridhara, Dhaka.

The program’s primary goal was to foster knowledge exchange and strengthen collaboration between Bangladesh and Japan in advancing software architecture. Thirty attendees, including 17 professionals from BASIS member companies, attended the ceremony.

The Bangladesh Top Software Engineer (B-TOPSE) program, which aims to develop “super architects” by equipping software engineers with cutting-edge expertise, is being conducted in partnership with the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC).

Prominent attendees at the event included BASIS President M Rashidul Hasan, Chairman of the BASIS Japan Desk A.K.M. Ahmedul Islam BABU, Dr. Muhammad Mehedi Hasan, Executive Director (Additional Charge) of BCC, Dr. Md. Abul Kashem Mia, Vice-Chancellor of United International University, Md. Golam Sarwar, Director (Manager of Operations) and In-Charge of BD iTec at BCC, Kurokami Minami, Representative of JICA Bangladesh, and Shoji Akihiro, JICA Expert and Chief Advisor to the JICA-BCC-BASIS TCP.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Muhammad Mehedi Hasan, Executive Director (Additional Charge) of the Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC), described the Training of Trainers (ToT) program as a groundbreaking initiative in technology and software architecture. He stated, “This initiative will equip Bangladeshi trainers with skills aligned with global standards and strengthen our position in the international market.”

BASIS President M Rashidul Hasan emphasized the significance of global partnerships in advancing the ICT sector. He remarked, “Collaboration with technologically advanced countries like Japan is crucial for skill development and elevating our industry to international standards. BASIS consistently works to enhance the capabilities of professionals, and this ToT program is a testament to that commitment. We aim to position Bangladesh’s tech sector at a level where we can compete more robustly on the global stage.”

A.K.M. Ahmedul Islam BABU, Chairman of the BASIS Japan Desk and Coordinator of B-TOPSE on behalf of BASIS, remarked, “Such collaborations between Bangladesh and Japan not only advance technological development but also foster deep professional relationships. The fusion of Japan’s advanced technology and Bangladesh’s creative skills will unlock new opportunities for both nations in the future.”

Shoji Akihiro, JICA expert and chief advisor of the JICA-BCC-BASIS TCP project, expressed optimism about the collaboration. He said, “The exchange of knowledge and expertise between Bangladesh and Japan is mutually beneficial. I believe this program will enhance professional skills and foster long-term cooperation between the two countries.”