BMU's AI Robotic Rehabilitation Center is a new horizon in the country's medical sector

 

BMU's AI Robotic Rehabilitation Center is a new horizon in the country's medical sector

 

Varun Kumar Das and Abdur Rauf 

Dhaka, December 22, 2025 : A groundbreaking chapter has begun in the country's medical science. 

An artificial intelligence (AI)-based robotic rehabilitation center has been launched in Bangladesh for the first time to rehabilitate patients with paralysis, long-term neurological diseases, and various complex bone and joint problems. 

Already, 30 to 35 patients are receiving medical services here every day.

This state-of-the-art center has been set up at the Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) Super Specialized Hospital with technical and financial assistance from the Chinese government.

Those injured in the July uprising are receiving the world's most advanced robotic medical care here completely free of charge.

Regarding the activities of the center, BMU's Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department Chairman and Robotic Rehabilitation Center Focal Person Professor Dr. MA Shakur said that a total of 62 devices have been installed in the center. Of these, 57 are robots and five are physical therapy training beds.

Of the 57 robots, 22 are fully artificial intelligence (AI)-based. These robots help with 'neuroplasticity', the process of reorganizing damaged nerves in the brain, which is much more effective than conventional physiotherapy.

He said that the center has 'ZEPU AI-1 & 9', which are used as gait training robots, to restore normal walking ability in patients suffering from stroke or spinal cord injury.

'ZEPU AI-2' and 'ZEPU AI-3' will be used to restore the functionality of the hands and feet and provide feedback. 

In addition, there is more advanced robotic technology, including the Multi-Joint Constant Speed ​​Training System 'ZEPU AI-4', which allows patients to practice walking in a very precise and natural posture. Unlike conventional treatments, these robots are able to provide fatigue-free therapy to patients for long periods of time.

It is learned that the Chinese government has donated robotic equipment worth about Tk 250 million to this project. 

Technologically, it is considered one of the most modern robotic rehabilitation centers in South Asia, which is a groundbreaking milestone in the medical sector in Bangladesh. These robots will enable physiotherapy, neurological rehabilitation and long-term medical care to be provided with utmost precision, in accordance with the patient's condition.

BMU authorities said that in preparation for the launch of the center, 29 doctors and physiotherapists have already been trained under the supervision of a seven-member expert team of biomedical engineers from China. The center will be fully launched once the trained manpower gains sufficient experience and skills and the necessary activities are successfully completed.

This center will benefit patients suffering from stroke, paralysis, neurological impairment, chronic pain, nerve injury, frozen shoulder, accidental complications, and weakness of various body parts.

With the launch of the center, Bangladesh has entered a new era in technology-based rehabilitation treatment. 

According to those concerned, this is not only a technological advancement for the domestic medical system, but also a new ray of hope for people suffering from paralysis and long-term illnesses.

Earlier, during the inauguration of the Robotic Rehabilitation Center, Health Advisor Nurjahan Begum said, "This center is not just a place for curing diseases, but also a center for realizing the dreams of many people. The Chinese government has donated robots worth about 250 million taka here. In addition, our doctors and health workers have been given special training to operate them."

The advisor said that those injured in the July protests, especially those who have had their arms and legs severed or have suffered neurological complications from the shooting, will receive free services here on a priority basis.

Meanwhile, in addition to providing Bangladesh with the latest technology, 27 staff members of BMU have been given special training. Moreover, the Chinese government has launched a green channel to facilitate medical services in China for Bangladeshi citizens. As a result, Bangladeshis will have the opportunity to go to China and get health check-ups and diagnose diseases in the fastest time.

BMU authorities also said that ordinary patients will be able to avail this modern service at a nominal cost under the supervision of experienced doctors. They expressed hope that this will mean that patients suffering from nerve, bone and joint diseases and those suffering from paralysis will no longer have to go abroad for treatment.