Does it sound a trifle strange that Bangladesh is set to join the bandwagon of global technology-savvy countries responsible for manufacturing semiconductors? Reports pouring in since the last couple of days not only highlighted the prospect in this regard but also argued in favour of the country's capability to emerge as a significant player in semiconductor packaging. A FE report, quoting local entrepreneurs, says Bangladesh stands to earn billions of dollars in chip designing or prefabrication works by providing training to the existing pool of engineers with government support. With approximately 25,000 engineering graduates entering the workforce annually, targeted and practical training programmes could enable them seize opportunities within the rapidly expanding global semiconductor industry, the report suggests.
Semiconductors, sometimes referred to as integrated circuits (ICs) or microchips, are made from pure elements, typically silicon or germanium, or compounds such as gallium arsenide. In a process called doping, small amounts of impurities are added to these pure elements, causing large changes in the conductivity of the material. Developments in semiconductor technology during the past 50 years have made electronic devices smaller, faster, and more reliable. Today, semiconductors are used far and wide. Semiconductors can be found in nearly every electronic device. Desktop computers, the internet, tablet devices, smartphones would not be possible without semiconductors. Semiconductors can be made into precision switches with a small amount of voltage.
Current global market of semiconductor is reportedly worth $600 billion, and the industry shows signs of booming to $1.0 trillion by 2030. Although Bangladesh is at a very infant stage, local entrepreneurs claim that the country's capacity has been well-established at prefabrication stage as big-name like Apple and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) have already teamed up with Bangladeshi engineers in chip designing. According to experts, as of now, Bangladesh's involvement is limited to IC chip design, but if the country can enter the semiconductor ecosystem, which includes silicon wafer production, IC chip fabrication, IC chip packaging, assembly and testing, and integration into products, revenue from the semiconductor industry may be expected to be similar to the current income from readymade garment. Industry people suggest that for gearing up the sector, a separate cabinet body under the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) focused on semiconductor may be introduced to oversee investment and plan governmental support mechanisms. Also, they suggest matching grants from government for startup companies could help them develop human resources. Aligning academic curriculum in a well-targeted manner will also add required motivation for students to join the knowledge-based pursuit.
For sustained and inclusive growth of the semiconductor industry, a collaborative approach involving the private sector, academia, and the government is essential. By jointly cultivating a skilled workforce and attracting talented engineers to the field, a robust pool of expertise can be created. The success of these efforts will largely hinge on proactive government initiatives. Prioritising investment in human capital, establishing conducive working environment, and formulating forward-thinking policies are pivotal to kickstarting and sustaining the growth of this burgeoning industry.
Semiconductor may open up a new frontier
FE Team | Published: March 21, 2024 20:52:12
Semiconductor may open up a new frontier
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