Former US congressman Jamaal Bowman urged the government to increase spending on AI education for children during his recent visit to Dhaka, saying schools must teach young people how to use artificial intelligence so they can get good jobs and start small businesses. He visited several schools, met teachers and students, and stressed that stronger links between the school system and the private sector would help shape a practical curriculum that matches the needs of local employers. Bowman said more investment is needed in computers, tablets and school internet so learners can access AI programmes, and he noted that lower public spending on education makes it harder to roll out modern tools and courses. He suggested that private companies, NGOs and donors could join with the government to fund classrooms, teacher training and hands-on labs that let students practise problem solving with real software. Bowman also said clear career paths, internships and short technical courses would help students move quickly from school into work, and that teaching children about AI early can help them use machines to add value rather than be replaced by them. He praised the energy and talent of young people he met and said girls often showed strong leadership in the schools he visited, a hopeful sign that better investment could help keep girls in class and ease pressures that push them into early marriage. The former congressman urged that the curriculum be updated with careful planning so subjects stay relevant, and that teacher training be part of any new spending so instructors know how to guide students safely and ethically when using AI tools. Simple steps like providing basic devices, free or low cost internet in schools, and short courses for teachers can make a fast difference, while longer term work on curriculum and lab facilities will build deep skills. The piece of advice he gave most was to connect learning to local jobs so students can see how new skills pay off. If government, business and civil society work together, more children will gain the knowledge they need for a digital future and the country can grow more skilled workers and small enterprises. Building safe, fair and practical AI lessons now will help young people take part in a changing economy and bring clear benefits to families, schools and local communities. Small grants for schools, teacher workshops and clear certifications will help parents trust new courses so employers can hire with confidence. Community centres and mobile labs can bring lessons to rural areas so children outside big cities also learn. Measuring results and sharing what works will help the country improve fast and ensure every child has a chance to learn useful AI skills.
