DHAKA, May 15, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh will join the global community in observing World Telecommunication and Information Society Day on May 17 with enthusiasm and a range of activities.

This year's theme, "Gender equality in digital transformation", emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in technological advancements.

To commemorate the occasion, a special event will be held at the office of telecom regulator - Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) featuring an inauguration ceremony and a discussion on the day's significance.

Following this, a seminar will bring together distinguished personalities from the telecommunications sector, including government representatives, regulators, entrepreneurs, academics, and experts.

Additionally, the Department of Posts will issue commemorative postage stamps, to be unveiled by the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.

A fair will take place on the BTRC premises, with active participation from telecommunications entrepreneurs and licensees.

Meanwhile, the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) has organized a hackathon competition, inviting students from various schools, colleges, and universities.

A total of 35 teams, each consisting of four members, will compete in the finals on May 16, 2025.

On this occasion, individuals and teams with notable contributions to the telecommunications sector - both nationally and internationally - will receive honors.

Furthermore, special devices will be provided to the heroes wounded during the July uprising.

To amplify the celebration, key locations such as the Bangladesh Secretariat, Press Club, Chief Adviser's Office, Bijoy Sarani to the Military Museum, and the entrance to the BTRC Office will be adorned with eco-friendly banners.

Aligned with the day's theme, talk shows will be aired on television, national newspapers and online platforms will publish supplements, and the BCS (Telecom) Association will release a souvenir.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) was established on May 17, 1865, with the signing of the International Telegraph Convention in Paris, France.

Every year, all member states celebrate World Telecommunication and Information Union Day on May 17 to raise awareness about the impact of the Internet and other technologies on improving the quality of life and eliminating digital inequality.

On this occasion, meetings, seminars, workshops, processions, digital skills training, public campaigns, exhibitions and hackathons are held in different countries of the world, including ITU.

The theme of this year is not just a message; rather, it is a full-fledged call to build a strong foundation for women and men in the socio-economic development of today's technology-dependent society.

At every stage of using technology, "people should be at the center" - not women or men.

The first World Telecommunication Day was observed in 1969, marking 104 years since the founding of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1865. It was celebrated on the anniversary of ITU's establishment.

Later, in 2003, the World Information Society Conference took place in Geneva, Switzerland, further emphasizing the significance of global connectivity and information exchange.