N※N

Youth-Driven Nuclear Science Fair Draws 30,000 Visitors to Dhaka

90

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. science-fair-draws-30-000-visitors-to-dhaka.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, November 26th 2025 at 10:10 GMT by The Daily Star

• 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
• 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source

2025-11-26 179 x 224 / 16434 Bytes

2025-11-26 224 x 224 / 11442 Bytes

2025-11-26 179 x 224 / 15371 Bytes

2025-11-26 251 x 201 / 17404 Bytes

Youth-Focused Nuclear Science and Technology Fair Illuminates Dhaka’s Scientific Landscape

In a landmark event that underscored Bangladesh’s growing engagement with nuclear science, a youth‑oriented Nuclear Science and Technology Fair opened its doors in the capital city of Dhaka on 12–13 November 2023. The two‑day extravaganza, organized by the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) in partnership with the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) and the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission’s (BAEC) research and outreach arm, attracted more than 30,000 visitors, 150 exhibitors and a vibrant cohort of student participants. The fair, which was held at the Bangladesh International Convention Centre (BICC), aimed to demystify nuclear technology, promote STEM education among the country’s younger generation, and showcase Bangladesh’s strides in nuclear research and application.

A Multifaceted Programme for a New Generation

At the heart of the fair was a carefully curated programme that blended technical exhibits, interactive displays, panel discussions, and hands‑on workshops. Visitors could explore a wide array of nuclear‑related fields—from nuclear power generation and nuclear medicine to radiation safety, waste management, and fusion research. Highlight booths included a 3‑D simulation of a research reactor, a live demonstration of computed tomography (CT) scanning using low‑dose radiation, and a showcase of the newly commissioned Bangabandhu Atomic Research Reactor (BAR), which serves both research and educational purposes.

The event kicked off with an opening address by Dr. Kazi Habibul Awal, the Minister of Science and Technology. In his speech, he underscored the government’s commitment to “building a nuclear future” and called on the youth to take up roles in this critical sector. The Minister emphasized that nuclear science would play a pivotal role in meeting Bangladesh’s energy needs, advancing medical diagnostics, and ensuring environmental sustainability.

Following the opening remarks, the fair’s keynote session was delivered by Dr. Mohammad Shahidul Alam, Director General of the BAEC. He presented an overview of Bangladesh’s nuclear policy, the status of the existing research reactor, and the nation’s strategic plan to develop a 100‑MW nuclear power plant by the 2030s. The talk highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary research and the need for international collaboration, citing partnerships with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission’s memorandum of understanding with the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA).

Youth‑Centred Activities and Interactive Learning

One of the fair’s hallmark features was its focus on hands‑on learning for students. The “Nuclear Science Lab” station, set up by the BARC and the Department of Physics at the University of Dhaka, offered visitors an interactive experience with radiation detectors and shielding materials. Here, school and university students could conduct simple experiments under the guidance of senior physicists, learning how gamma rays and neutrons interact with different media.

A dedicated “Future Scientists” competition drew participation from over 200 high‑school and university teams. Teams were challenged to design a small‑scale nuclear reactor concept or propose innovative applications for nuclear technology in agriculture or medicine. The competition was judged by a panel of experts including Dr. Rafiq Hossain (Senior Nuclear Engineer at BAEC) and Dr. Shamsuddin (Radiation Safety Officer). Winning teams received scholarships and mentorship opportunities from the Ministry’s Youth and Sports Department.

In addition to the competition, the fair offered a series of workshops aimed at broadening participants’ knowledge. Topics included “Radiation Safety in Medical Imaging,” “The Role of Nuclear Power in Climate‑Friendly Energy Mix,” and “Advanced Nuclear Waste Management.” These workshops were conducted by professionals from the BAEC, the Department of Atomic Energy, and international partners, such as representatives from the IAEA and the International Nuclear Information System (INIS).

Exhibits, Partnerships, and Global Outlook

Beyond the student‑centric activities, the fair served as a platform for industry‑academia collaboration. Seven local companies, including the Bangladesh Nuclear Power Company (BNPC), presented the latest technologies in nuclear instrumentation and control systems. International organisations, such as the IAEA’s Office of Nuclear Energy, hosted an information booth that provided detailed guidance on nuclear regulation, safety protocols, and international best practices.

A special exhibition area highlighted Bangladesh’s growing partnership with neighboring countries on nuclear science. For instance, the Bangladesh–India Nuclear Cooperation Programme was showcased, illustrating joint research projects and capacity‑building initiatives. Similarly, the collaboration with the United Kingdom’s Royal Society for the Promotion of Science and Technology was highlighted through a demonstration of a remote sensing satellite system that uses nuclear detectors for environmental monitoring.

The fair’s organisers also used the event as a launchpad for a new youth‑engagement initiative, “Nuclear Innovators Bangladesh.” The programme aims to support high‑school and university students with scholarships, internships, and research funding to pursue careers in nuclear science. Dr. Shahidul Alam announced that the programme would be funded by a partnership between the Ministry of Science and Technology, the AEC, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Public Outreach and Media Coverage

Media coverage of the fair was extensive, with both local and international outlets covering the event. The Daily Star’s press release, which drew global attention to the fair, was part of a broader outreach effort to highlight Bangladesh’s commitment to nuclear technology. The press release also linked to the AEC’s official website and the Ministry of Science and Technology’s news portal for readers seeking deeper insight into the country’s nuclear agenda.

Public feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Visitors praised the fair’s interactive approach and appreciated the clear communication of complex nuclear concepts. Social media discussions revealed an increased curiosity among students about nuclear engineering, with many expressing interest in enrolling in related programmes at universities such as Dhaka University and the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).

Looking Ahead

The Youth‑Focused Nuclear Science and Technology Fair has set a new benchmark for public engagement in Bangladesh’s nuclear sector. By bridging the gap between advanced scientific research and the younger generation’s curiosity, the event has fostered a culture of innovation and informed public dialogue. The organisers have announced that a follow‑up fair is planned for 2025, with a broader scope that will include a dedicated “Women in Nuclear” segment to promote gender diversity in the field.

As Bangladesh continues to pursue a diversified energy mix that balances traditional sources with modern nuclear technology, events like this fair play a pivotal role in nurturing the next wave of scientists, engineers, and policymakers. The synergy between government agencies, academic institutions, industry partners, and the community promises a brighter, safer, and more scientifically literate future for the country.