The Bangladesh Artificial Intelligence Olympiad (BdAIO) has taken a giant leap forward in 2025, showcasing an extraordinary surge in interest and participation from students across the country. Over 1000 kids have registered for this year’s Olympiad, demonstrating the growth of what started out as a modest competition in 2024 with only 183 registrations into a nationwide movement. The increase is indicative of a larger trend in which artificial intelligence is no longer seen as a remote or abstract idea but rather as an interesting topic that young people in Bangladesh are keen to learn more about.
In 2024, just 50 students progressed to the Olympiad’s national round. Although the first edition set a good basis, it was still in its infancy. After a year has passed, the scenery has drastically changed. In addition to surpassing the thousand registrations, 171 students advanced to the finals and another 235 took part in the AI quiz round in the 2025 edition. In just a year, interest and understanding of AI have skyrocketed, as evidenced by the roughly sixfold rise in engagement.
This is a change in perspective rather than merely an increase in numbers. AI is starting to be recognized by educators, parents, and students as an essential component of the future, not just globally, but also in Bangladesh. Through the Olympiad, kids have had the opportunity to interact with state-of-the-art technologies, hone their critical thinking abilities, and envision themselves as future innovators and problem solvers. The tireless efforts of educators, volunteers, and activists who have pushed to increase AI’s accessibility for children from all backgrounds are responsible for this quick expansion.
A closer examination of this year’s data, however, shows a gender disparity that requires attention. Only 24% of participants were female, whereas 76% of participants were male, underscoring the need for future inclusive measures. The Olympiad organizers are thinking of a multifaceted strategy to bridge this gap, including mentorship programs with female role models in AI and technology, inclusive advertising materials, and focused outreach in girls’ schools. Hands-on sessions, confidence-building workshops, and beginner-friendly courses can help many new female participants feel more motivated and confident.
There is a regional divide in the Olympiad data as well. The bulk of participants were students from Dhaka, Chattogram, and Rajshahi, with lesser numbers from other divisions. A lack of STEM-based education, poor instruction, and fewer extracurricular activities in many areas are frequently the causes of this lopsided distribution. Expanding STEM education in schools, making AI learning resources easily accessible, and setting up regional training camps and workshops are all essential to empowering students in all divisions, particularly in underprivileged areas.
In terms of innovation, Bangladesh is at the dawn of a new age, and this Olympiad is more than just a contest; it is the starting of something new. Despite the lengthy trip ahead, the future appears bright considering inclusive measures and hundreds of talented minds.