'I see robots created in Bangladesh in next 5 years'
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Bangladeshi tech entrepreneur Rudmeela Nawsheen is founder and CEO of ConfigVR and ConfigRbot based in Silicon Valley, California. Her aim is to create a manufacturing plant in Bangladesh to begin making smart devices and robots locally within the next five years, she told Dhaka Tribune’s Niaz Mahmud in a virtual interview.
How did you become a tech entrepreneur? Can you tell us something about yourself?
I did my undergrad in Electrical Engineering to ensure that I could understand the technical world, and my master's in Software Engineering focusing on Digital Communications and Multimedia, which gave me the knowledge to build and develop software. I graduated summa cum laude within my masters and started my general market trends then.
After two years, I wanted my own identity so launched ConfigVR, my first company in Silicon Valley with my very own savings.
After establishing ConfigVR for 3 years Not long ago i launched my second company ConfigRbot with four robots, two Internet of things (IoT) devices and three software solutions. Now I am looking for grants to market, market, and build this company as I've big plans with it.
I have been honoured as one of the 50 most inspiring Bangladeshi ladies in Business America magazine.
How are you doing in Silicon Valley?
My experience so far has been scholastic and insightful. I want to dream big in fact it is my adventurous nature, which gave me the courage to begin these companies alone. I did so everything by myself and along the way, I think I have trained myself in a variety of fields like management, marketing, project management, product management, employee management, client handling, pitching, accounts, building websites, networking, etc.
What exactly are ConfigVR and ConfigRbot’s missions?
ConfigVR's mission is to virtualize your vision whereas ConfigRbot’s mission is to build and automate the near future. With the existing pandemic situation as mostly everything is shifting online, I see huge scope for different services we provide. We've built a chatbot especially for Covid-19 for the healthcare industry.
Our most impressive robot may be the cutting edge AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle). AGVs have numerous applications varying from warehouse robots to hospitality.
ConfigRbot's AGV could be ordered with a UVC sterilization kit, which is utilized in large public spaces such as for example airports, hospitals, offices, malls, schools, etc, to fight against Covid-19.
The robotic arm can automate many jobs.
Our IoT device can track attendance, item-level inventory, tolls and can also be used for supply chain visibility, materials management, and interactive marketing.
When is it possible to start manufacturing robots in Bangladesh?
Within the next five years, I aim to see robots being made in Bangladesh.
Industry 4.0 demands skilled tech labour to develop and keep maintaining automated factories. Training the youth can show that we have untapped potential and high-tech manufacturing will naturally flow in. I want to see Bangladesh foster more tech organizations providing custom factory automation design and integrate answers to anyone on earth.
Do we've enough manpower and infrastructure to create it a success?
Given the vast population, we definitely have the manpower but we must train them. We need to educate the ecosystem and build the infrastructure to aid the 4.0 industry demands and also to match the world. I really believe the right training and guidance can create an army of talent that can power these industries.
What if the government offer in the budget to create more skilled manpower?
I think subsidized training programs from the federal government might help train more persons in specific fields. When someone requires a job, but cannot find one or don't have skills or experience, a government-subsidized job that trains because they go might help.
The program will help businesses afford to employ and train employees, help employees obtain work, and will help the federal government as more people become self-sufficient by gaining job experience and by becoming employable.
How will we financially benefit after making robots?
Automation could be beneficial generally in most industries since it lowers operating cost. Robots is capable of doing the work of three to five people, depending on the duty, not to mention improved worker safety and reduced factory lead times.
What else are you interested in doing besides being truly a tech entrepreneur?
I am a world traveler. I really like the Bengali culture. I am a classical dancer and used to play piano, Tanpura, and harmonium. I am also head of production at a media company and plan to promote Bengali content on global platforms. I am also actively dealing with different NGO's and the government to build training programs for rural areas, underprivileged and handicapped youth.
What strategies do you consider are needed for the youth to embrace technology?
I believe the youth today are quite tech-savvy. With the web, many people are learning something new every day. Smartphones, YouTube, Facebook, etc are leading the world to where you want to see it.
Source: https://www.dhakatribune.com