The third edition of bKash-Bigganchinta Science Festival began at Mirpur Cantonment Public School and College in Dhaka on Sunday, aiming to spark school students’ interest and passion for science, research and innovation.
Organised by bKash and the monthly science magazine Bigganchinta, students from over 120 schools from Dhaka region showcased innovative projects, took part in quizzes and joined science discussions in this year’s festival, said a press release.
Robot ‘WALL.E’ made the festival announcement.
This year festival will travel through regional phases in Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barisal, Rangpur and Sylhet divisions, followed by finale in Dhaka.
The festival aims to instil a scientific mentality in students from young age, thereby equipping them to compete in a rapidly evolving technological world.
In the past two editions, students from Class VI to X displayed over 600 captivating science projects from more than 850 institutes across the country, engaging more than 20,000 participants.
Besides, over 4,300 students participated in the quiz competition.
The Science Festival was inaugurated by computer scientist and academician Mohammad Kaykobad, chief external and corporate affairs officer of bKash Sheikh Md Monirul Islam, Bigganchinta editor Abdul Quayum, Mirpur Cantonment Public School and College principal Lieutenant Colonel Farzana Shakil, fiction writer Anisul Hoque, professor of physical science department of Independent University Arshad Momen, writer and cartoonist Ahsan Habib, former Bangladesh National Cricket team captain Habibul Bashar, science speaker Asif, EVP and head of regulatory and corporate affairs Humayun Kabir and vice-president Sayma Ahsan from bKash and Bigganchinta executive editor Abul Bashar.
Student teams from 120 schools showcased around 150 innovative projects at the Dhaka regional round science festival. Students also participated in quiz competitions. The top 17 science projects were recognised while 17 winners of quiz competitions in lower secondary and 15 in secondary categories were awarded as well.
Rayin Al Raad, Class X student of St Joseph Higher Secondary School won the award for his project on making an app on environment.
The winning teams from divisional competition will proceed to the national-level final in Dhaka where national champions will be awarded.