BRAC University has joined Open Forum for AI (OFAI), an international initiative focused on advancing human-centered and ethical approaches to artificial intelligence (AI).
Launched at Carnegie Mellon University in 2024, OFAI brings together academic institutions and nonprofit organizations to support collaborative, transparent, and inclusive AI development. The coalition emphasizes an open approach, multi-stakeholder engagement, and public interest values in AI strategy and governance.
“We’re building a coalition grounded in the belief that AI must be shaped by diverse perspectives — not just large technology companies,” said Carnegie Mellon University Libraries Associate Dean for Digital Infrastructure and Director of Open Source Programs Office (OSPO) Sayeed Choudhury, who serves as the executive director of OFAI. “By welcoming BRAC University, a leader in interdisciplinary education and social innovation, OFAI expands its global reach and deepens its commitment to collaboration across borders.”
Founded in 2001, BRAC University is based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and is recognized for its focus on development and innovation in the Global South. As a member of OFAI, the university will engage in shared research efforts, policy discussions, technical prototyping, and outreach initiatives centered on equitable and responsible AI.
“We are proud to join OFAI’s global network and contribute to shaping AI that serves the public good,” said Professor Mahbub Majumdar, Dean of the School of Data & Sciences at BRAC University. “Our participation reflects BRAC University’s commitment to advancing ethical technology and ensuring that communities in the Global South have a voice in the future of AI.”
A key focus of the coalition is developing technical frameworks and prototypes that define and operationalize what open means in the context of AI and guiding both policy and practice toward greater transparency and equity. This includes research into how open-source principles can extend beyond software to encompass models and data, with the goal of creating standards for open, safe, and transparent AI development.
The initiative’s working groups also address critical issues such as AI safety, privacy, benchmarks for technical evaluation, and inclusive participation. Particular attention is given to enabling a diverse range of stakeholders to take part in shaping the future of AI. Current efforts include convening forums that bring together researchers, technical experts, and community representatives to advance collaborative research, develop new evaluation methods, and drive engagement in AI policy and prototype design. The Liaisons between OFAI and Brac University are Professors Taiabul Haque and Swakkhar Shatabda.
About BRAC University
BRAC University is a leading higher education institution in Bangladesh committed to excellence in teaching, research, and social impact. Its programs address local and global development challenges through interdisciplinary and community-engaged approaches.
About Open Forum for AI (OFAI)
Led by Carnegie Mellon University, Open Forum for AI is an international initiative designed to support responsible and human-centered artificial intelligence. By fostering collaboration across academia, civil society, government, and industry, OFAI seeks to build a more open, inclusive, and accountable AI ecosystem.