Empowering the next generation of AI innovators through a 14-week learning journey, international collaboration, and real-world innovation
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory (Matsuo Lab) of the University of Tokyo, celebrated the successful completion of GCI World April 2026, a 14-week artificial intelligence (AI) education programme on 8 July 2026. In collaboration with BRAC University, a Hackathon and Special Lecture were held to mark the completion of the program, a press release said.
GCI World is a global educational initiative by the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory that provides students with hands-on training in artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning, combining theoretical learning with practical competitions and real-world business applications. More than 25,000 students from 114 countries participated in the course, including around 700 students from Bangladesh.
The programme featured the GCI World Hackathon, where participants developed AI-driven solutions to real-world challenges, followed by a Special Lecture by researchers from the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory, one of Japan’s leading AI research laboratories. The event introduced participants to the latest developments in artificial intelligence while demonstrating how data science and machine learning can be applied to solve practical business and societal challenges.
The special lecture and closing session held at BRAC University brought together more than 800 students, both in person and online, from around the world, alongside researchers, academics, industry professionals, and distinguished guests. The event reaffirmed a shared commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing the next generation of AI talent equipped for the future.
Speaking during the Special Lecture and Closing Session, Morikawa Yuko, Senior Representative, JICA Bangladesh, said, “ If AI education can be connected with entrepreneurship, research, and industry, I believe Bangladesh can develop its own solutions for its own challenges—and in doing so, contribute innovations to the world.”
The programme concluded with the announcement of the Outstanding Student Certificate recipients, among whom one student from Bangladesh was selected as one of the 17 Outstanding Students worldwide. These outstanding participants will have the opportunity to visit Matsuo Lab, University of Tokyo in August 2026.
The event reflects JICA’s continued commitment to strengthening Bangladesh’s human resource development through international collaboration. By connecting Bangladeshi students with globally recognized academic initiatives such as GCI World, JICA aims to enhance local capacity in AI, data science, and digital innovation, contributing to Bangladesh’s ongoing digital transformation.
