As Bangladesh reaches one milestone after another, aided by the power of technology, it must continue to prioritize inclusion and digital access for all.

Bangladesh has undoubtedly done a stellar job when it comes to digitizing the nation, particularly with regard to simplifying government services.

This recognition of the power of digitization a decade and a half ago is what gave rise to “Digital Bangladesh” and it is the foundation which will enable the vision of “Smart Bangladesh” to become a reality.

Bangladesh’s bottom-up approach to the digitization of government services, facilitated by numerous stakeholders, have attempted to reach the marginalized of Bangladesh’s population — and this must be commended, for any prosperous nation must look to become an equitable nation.

To that end, while Bangladesh appears to be on the right path, it must continue to embrace the ethos of inclusivity and being an equitable nation.

With Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) observed on May 18, it is important to recognize that persons with disabilities are often an afterthought when it comes to digital access and inclusion of services.

Technology has been a great enabler to transform lives, and for persons with disabilities in particular, it can be the ultimate equalizer. Yet, if not prioritized, there is the real risk of those with disabilities being left behind.

Initiatives such as the Disability Innovation Lab (DIL) of the government’s a2i program are a step in the right direction to ensure that as the nation digitizes and incorporates technology more and more, those with disabilities are not forgotten.

Moving forward, as Bangladesh reaches one milestone after another, aided by the power of technology, it must continue to prioritize inclusion and digital access for all — and persons with disabilities are as important a section as any other Bangladeshi.