Zarif Faiaz

Zarif Faiaz is a writer, journalist, and a tech policy researcher based out of Dhaka, Bangladesh. He is the In-Charge of the Tech & Startup section at The Daily Star and a Fellow at the Tech Global Institute.

The colonial legacy in our digital infrastructure

How Bangladesh and the Global South remain trapped in digital dependence

2w ago

How to build a positive work culture in your office

In today's competitive business landscape, fostering a positive work culture, boosting employee morale, and enhancing team cohesion are not just desirable—they are essential for organisational success. Companies that prioritise these elements often experience increased productivity, reduced turnover, and a more engaged workforce.

1m ago

Inside Uber’s operations in Bangladesh: A chat with Nasheed Ferdous Kamal

The Daily Star sat down with Nasheed Ferdous Kamal, Country Head, Uber Bangladesh, and Amy Price, Director - Head of Tech, Media and Telecoms Practice at Public First, to discuss Uber’s economic and social impact, responses to safety challenges and debates facing the gig economy, and the future of ride-sharing in Bangladesh.

1m ago

Climbing the corporate ladder: top strategies for career advancement

Climbing the corporate ladder requires a strategic approach that encompasses continuous learning, strong professional relationships, and a proactive attitude towards growth. Employees who want to advance must demonstrate their value in ways that align with both personal ambitions and the evolving needs of their organisations.

2m ago

Lifelong learning: Staying relevant in the age of AI

The rise of AI isn’t a distant phenomenon confined to Silicon Valley boardrooms; it’s here, woven into the fabric of Bangladesh’s economy. Jobs once considered secure are evolving—or disappearing—while new roles, unimaginable a decade ago, are emerging at breakneck speed.

2m ago

Will the home adviser go big or go home?

Post-August 5, muggers, robbers, and criminals run rampant in the city as the law and order situation has fallen to an all-time low.

3m ago

Revitalising Bangladesh’s jute industry through pioneering worker training

Bangladesh, historically known as a major player in the global jute industry, has long depended on the "Golden Fibre" as a key economic driver. Yet, in recent years, the sector has faced substantial challenges, ranging from reduced demand for raw jute exports to outdated processing techniques. 

4m ago

BTRC's draft satellite internet guideline risks becoming a digital gatekeeper

This draft policy is hiding a central duality in plain sight: Bangladesh is eager to welcome cutting-edge satellite technology, yet appears equally intent on tightly controlling its operation.

5m ago
July 18, 2024
July 18, 2024

Right to access the internet is a human right

A world without internet is unimaginable in this age and time.

July 18, 2024
July 18, 2024

The future of leadership is kindness

In recent years, the business world has seen a paradigm shift in the qualities we value in leaders. Long gone are the days when assertiveness and strength were seen as the sole indicators of effective leadership.

June 10, 2024
June 10, 2024

How to not handle a crisis communication: A lesson from Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola's botched ad campaign highlights the pitfalls of crisis communication.

May 25, 2024
May 25, 2024

Government mishandling of personal data: Where does it end?

Are these incidents of data breach and data leaks not contradictory to the very image of the smart, digital, developed Bangladesh that they are desperately trying to portray or advertise?

May 18, 2024
May 18, 2024

From fringe hobby to national pride

For years, gaming in Bangladesh was seen as a waste of time -- often dismissed as a frivolous activity or a distraction from more “serious” pursuits. Traditional societal norms placed little value on gaming, perceiving it as an endeavour devoid of any real-world benefits.

May 15, 2024
May 15, 2024

Regulating Dhaka traffic: Are ‘gate lock’ and speed caps all that it takes?

Unless things change on the street level, no rules or infrastructure can efficiently resolve Dhaka's traffic gridlock.

May 14, 2024
May 14, 2024

The creative industry was already suffering. Then came AI

The rapid advancement in the field of AI, particularly in the creative sector, raises a multitude of questions Is AI truly more creative than humans? What are the ethical implications of AI-generated art that imitates existing styles? How will the rise of AI impact the job market for creative professionals?

February 27, 2024
February 27, 2024

How to effectively deal with job searching fatigue

Application fatigue sets in when the initial enthusiasm for job searching gives way to the despair of repeated rejections. This emotional toll not only saps one's energy but can also lead to a reluctance to apply for new positions, for fear of facing further disappointment.

January 25, 2024
January 25, 2024

Startups defied economic downturn in 2023: study

The startup ecosystem in Bangladesh showcased a notable degree of resilience and adaptability in 2023, when economic uncertainty stemming from geopolitical tensions spread worldwide.

October 29, 2023
October 29, 2023

Xiaomi Pad 6: Balancing price and performance

Finding a device that balances performance, aesthetics, and price can be a challenge in today's saturated gadget market. Enter the Xiaomi Pad 6: a tablet that not only promises top-tier specs but does so without burning a hole in your pocket. Join us as we delve deeper into what makes the Pad 6 stand out in a crowded field.