The AP-GAINED: Asia Pacific - Generative AI Integration for NREN Enhancement and Development project, funded Asia Pacific Network Information Center (APNIC) Foundation, spearheaded by Lanka Education and Research Network (LEARN) in collaboration with Bangladesh Research and Education Network (BdREN) and Asia Pacific University (APU) Malaysia, aims to bridge the digital divide in National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) across lower-income regions. By offering tailored Generative AI (GenAI) training and resources, the project will empower NRENs with the skills and tools to enhance network operations, support research, and drive innovation in education, particularly for resource-constrained institutions.

As part of its commitment to advancing educational and network technology in Bangladesh, BdREN (Bangladesh Research and Education Network) recently dispatched three participants to Malaysia to attend a pivotal curriculum development program held from 16 September to 20 September 2024. The program is centered around integrating Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) into innovative educational, administration and network management systems, under the "Training the Trainer (TTT)" model.

This initiative is led by the AI for Innovative Design and Education (AIDE) project, under the auspices of the UNESCO Chair for Harnessing Innovations in Technology to Support Teachers & Quality Learning at Asia Pacific University (APU). In collaboration with AIDE, BdREN participants, along with trainees from LEARN (Lanka Education and Research Network), received expert instruction from trainers at APU.

The workshop, held in Malaysia, marks the first step in a transformative journey for BdREN's engineers and administrative staffs. The training will focus on leveraging GenAI for administration and network optimization, streamlining network operations, monitoring, and enhancing system efficiencies. After the in-person segment, the curriculum development will continue online, with collaborative efforts from both BdREN and LEARN until the curriculum is ready for pilot implementation.

This opportunity reflects BdREN's dedication to equipping its personnel with cutting-edge skills and technologies that will propel the research and education network to new heights in Bangladesh.