Innovation, Textile Research Key to Achieving Global Leadership: Milon

Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Saturday said that strengthening research and innovation in textile science is crucial for Bangladesh to retain its position in the global textile market and eventually become a world leader in the sector.

He also stressed the need for the sustainable integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and green textile technologies into the ready-made garment (RMG) industry.

The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration of the 4th International Conference on Textile Science and Engineering (ICTSE-2026), held at the Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX) in Tejgaon, Dhaka.

Describing the textile and RMG industry as the backbone of the national economy, Milon noted that around six million people are employed in the sector, with women making up a significant share of the workforce.

While Bangladesh is currently the world's second-largest garment exporter, the country remains heavily dependent on imported raw materials, he said.

To reduce this dependence and stay competitive with countries such as China, Vietnam, India and Pakistan, Bangladesh must pursue new opportunities through research, innovation and technological advancement, he added.

Milon said digitalisation and AI would not replace jobs in the garment industry; rather, these technologies would enhance product quality, foster innovative designs and strengthen global marketing efforts.

He also highlighted the importance of expanding environmentally sustainable textile practices and recycling systems to tackle climate change challenges and help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Recalling the rich legacy of Dhaka's renowned muslin, the minister called for reviving the historic fabric through the application of modern science and technology.

He further advocated increasing the use of biodegradable jute bags as an alternative to synthetic and polythene bags to curb environmental pollution.

Referring to government initiatives, Milon said jute-made school bags would be distributed among primary school students nationwide under the Prime Minister's directive.

Highlighting BUTEX's evolution, he said the institution's transformation from a college to a university formally began in 2006.

Today, its graduates are making significant contributions as professionals, entrepreneurs and industrialists, while many are also succeeding in the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS), police administration and politics, he said.

The minister urged private universities to establish modern laboratories and raise textile education to international standards.

The event was chaired by BUTEX Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Julhas Uddin, while University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed attended as a special guest.

Teachers, researchers and students from Bangladesh and abroad participated in the conference.

Earlier in the day, Milon inaugurated the BUTEX Tree Plantation Programme 2026, part of a nationwide initiative to plant 250 million trees over the next five years.