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Mya Rose Craig The Bird Girl

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Mya Rose Craig is known around the world as Bird Girl. She is also an ornithologist and author. At the age of 17, She became the youngest British Bangladeshi person to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Bristol. Teenagers now publishing her exclusive interview.

Q:We know that birds fly in the sky without just ostriches. Now the question is why the ostrich is called a bird even though it cannot fly?

Mya: Whether a species is a bird or mammal is not dependent on whether it can fly but on its scientific status. Ostrich’s have become non flying because this has benefits in its habitat for food and breeding and they still retain the remnants of flight feathers. Mammals generally give birth to live young whilst birds, fish and amphibians lay eggs.
Q: Why  birds fly south for the winter?
Mya: Many birds fly south for the winter to Bangladesh as they are looking for a warmer climate to live in during the winter. So for example, the very rare Spoon-billed Sandpiper breeds in the Russian Siberian Tundra in the summer before migrating south to Bangladesh for the winter. This is also true of birds that come to the UK during the summer, such as Barn Swallow, which come to the UK in spring, breed, before flying south in the autumn to Africa to escape our harsh winter.
Q: There was a time when birds ruled the world. There is no calculation of how many species of birds there were. But now that number is decreasing day by day. Many species of birds are endangered. Who is responsible for this? How do you think this extinction can be prevented?

Mya: There has been a dramatic decline of birds all over the world in the last 30 years. For example, in Europe there are  400 million fewer grassland birds. In Bangladesh, there are tiny numbers of birds left. When my mum visited her paternal family village in Sunamgonj in the 1970’s they were shooting huge numbers of water birds including Boks and Bogla that would not be good to eat. As people’s wealth has increased, more people can afford guns leading to indiscriminate killing of birds. The main reason for the huge decline of birds in Bangladesh is due to hunting with guns and nets, destruction of habitat such as cutting down trees, draining marshland & wetlands and the lack of protection of birds by the government.

The main change needed to save our birds is for big changes in the law, protecting birds and punishment of those who break the law. First we need to fund research into the reasons for the decline of different species and then what laws are needed to protect habitats and birds. Some of the issues will also impact on the increased risks of flooding.
Q: We know you are the youngest person to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Bristol in 2020. So now we call you Dr. Maya Rose Craig. I would like to hear your feeling when you find out that you will be awarded a doctorate degree. 

Mya: In December 2019, I received an email from someone at Bristol University telling me that they would like to give me an honorary degree and attached a letter from the Pro-Vice Chancellor. I was so shocked that I thought it was a hoax from one of my friends so I didn’t click on the attachment until my mum had phoned the university and found out it was a real offer.

It was incredible to be awarded something so fantastic & being the youngest British person to receive an honorary Doctorate of Science D.Sc. h.c. It was all really exciting, going onto The One Show a popular BBC chat show and doing lots of interviews. At the ceremony, the university made me feel like a real VIP. There were lots of TV camera crews who came and it was amazing to see them cram into see me.
I think it’s only as I get older and am at Cambridge University myself that I understand how enormous it was to be given an honorary doctorate at age 17.
I am really proud of being an Ambassador for Greenpeace and Oxfam amongst others.
Q: From Chew vally School to St. John’s College, Cambridge University.This is the journey of  your education life, how have you prepared yourself at this time?
Mya:The Chew Valley is made up of a few villages outside of Bristol. It is a really small area and I knew most of the people in my year at school. I had been attending lots of events and speaking, so I was a lot more outward looking than many people at school. I had a gap year planned between 6th form and university when I had planned to travel and spend time in Sylhet. However, due to covid-19 I was unable to travel, so instead wrote 3 books and went to the Arctic with Greenpeace. That was an incredible experience and allowed me to highlight the terrible impact climate change is having on the Arctic and so the planet.

Q: Do all birds migrate? If not all birds migrate, why do some migrate?

Mya: Most birds do not migrate but live in the same place all the year around. There is variation within the same species. For example, in the UK, some blackcaps, song thrushes and robins migrate but other do not. It depends on food and resources.

Q: You are an ornithologist. What is it actually? I want to know the details about this.

Mya: An ornithologist is someone who has studied birds for science. I have studied the science of birds since I was 9 years old, obtaining my licence to ring birds from the British Trust for Ornithology at 16 years old, which is the youngest age possible to obtain a licence in the UK. Bird ringing is when you catch birds in delicate nets, then carefully remove and examine them, taking measurements and weighting them before releasing them. I had to have a very detailed knowledge of birds ID before I could even start the training to obtain my trainee licence. I have done lots of bird ringing demonstrations and find that children and adults love to see the birds close up and even getting to hold or release them.

Q: How did your love for birds come about? Why do you love birds so much instead of other animals ?

Mya: My parents and older sister Ayesha loved birds and went out birdwatching all the time. When I was born, they carried on but just taking baby me with them. When I was 3, Ayesha was 15 years old and was obsessed with birds but also very beautiful and very cool. I wanted to be like her and so if she loved birds, I was going to love birds too. I was also good at bird ID and got a lot of pleasure from watching them.

Q: If there were no more birds on earth, just like the dinosaurs became extinct. In that case, what do you think what type of damage will have to face the world?

Mya: If birds became extinct this would have a drastic impact on our planet as nature relies on them and so in turn do we. For example, hummingbirds in South America and sunbirds in Asia use their long bills to feed on nectar and in turn pollinate flowers and food crops. Fruit eating birds often spread the seeds in their droppings. The planet has developing over millions of years, with each species having a place in the world, so extinctions have a huge impact on our environment and ultimately on us.

Q: You are a writer. We want to know how many books you have published and what their names are. What are your published books written about? Will you publish your book in Bengali?

Mya: I have been writing blog posts for my website and articles since I was 11 years old. During  the Covid-19 pandemic I had a year off as a gap year between school and university and  I wrote 3 books. The first was published by Magic Cat, a small sustainable publisher. It was called We Have A Dream and in it I interviewed and highlighted the work of 30 young environmentalists of colour from around the world. It came out in August 2021 and was beautifully illustrated. This book was really important to me, amplifying the voices of young people who are otherwise not heard as the environmental movement in the Global North is very White and mainly only promotes people who are White.

My second book is called Birdgirl and is a memoir about birding around the world as s child, how our love of birds helped our mental health and about becoming an activist. I am really proud of this book, which is available from Amazon.com and which I hope will one day be published in Bengali.
My last book is a large illustrated children’s book about bird migration called Flight.
Q: Since you are a British-Bangladeshi, we think you have learned Bengali as well as English. Can you speak Bengali as well as you can speak English? What language do you speak with your parents at home?
Mya: My Nanu lives in Bristol and has one brother living on one side and another brother on the other side. When I was a child, until I started school age 4 years old, one of my Nanis looked after me and one of my cousins. So I was surrounded by Sylheti and programmes on Channel S. When I started school, I was totally bi- lingual in English and Sylheti but I suddenly felt very self conscious about speaking Sylheti and refused to speak it. I think it’s really sad that my sister can speak Sylheti but not me. I had planned to spend 6 months in Sylhet during my year off but had to cancel due to covid-19 but now plan is to stay in Sylhet after I graduate and learn to start speaking Sylheti again. I think it a shame that my cousins who are my age can’t speak Sylheti either but things are harder as we are third generation British-Bangladeshi and the first generation in our family all speak good English and so we don’t have the need to learn.
Q: Now what is your advice for those who are young and love birds like you? And what is your message to those who hunt, sell, or capture birds?
Mya: My message is to all Bangladeshi’s, whether they are interested in birds or not; birds are fantastic, they can fly, so how incredible is that? What is there not to like about them? Try taking a closer look at the wonderful birds of Bangladesh and understand how important they are to humankind. Stand up and protect the birds of our beautiful world. Point your finger at those who are harming our birds and try to make them understand the harm they are doing to all of us. To those who kill or capture birds, your business will end soon as bird species disappear. Why don’t you stop now and become bird guides, showing Bangladeshi and foreign birdwatchers or bird photographers the birds in your area, using your bird sighting skills for birdwatching?
Dr Mya-Rose Craig
D.Sc. h.c.
Founder & President Black2Nature Twitter @officialb2n
www.birdgirluk.com Twitter @BirdgirlUK 
Instagram @birdgirluk

 

Vaibhav Bhaskar Reached Highest High School GPA

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Some students dream of graduating at the top of their class. Vaibhav Bhaskar dreamed even bigger. Years before finishing high school, he set his sights on becoming Florida’s valedictorian with the highest grade point average (GPA) ever recorded. In 2026, he achieved exactly that—and in the process, inspired a policy change that will make his record almost impossible to break.

The graduate of Steinbrenner High School in Lutz, Florida, finished with an astonishing 11.99 weighted GPA, surpassing the previous state record of 11.84, set by another Florida student in 2022. His achievement has drawn national attention, not only because of the remarkable number but also because of the dedication, discipline, and academic ambition behind it.

A Goal Set Years in Advance

For Bhaskar, becoming valedictorian was never a last-minute ambition. It was a goal he had been working toward since the beginning of high school. After learning about the previous state GPA record during his freshman year, he decided to challenge himself to reach even greater heights.

Rather than simply collecting good grades, he gradually expanded his focus to include leadership, community service, and activities that reflected his growing interest in economics and finance. According to Bhaskar, his exceptional GPA became the natural result of years of consistent hard work rather than the sole objective.

An Extraordinary Academic Journey

Reaching an 11.99 GPA required far more than earning straight A’s.

During four years of high school, Bhaskar completed 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 24 Dual Enrollment college courses, allowing him to earn an associate degree before receiving his high school diploma.

His schedule was packed with some of the most demanding classes available. At one point, he even gave up his lunch period to fit additional coursework into his day. When his school could no longer offer enough advanced classes, he enrolled in online college courses through the University of Florida, taking advantage of every academic opportunity available.

Despite the heavy workload, he says he genuinely enjoyed learning. Economics became his favorite subject, while courses such as AP Physics introduced him to topics he might never have explored otherwise.

More Than Just Grades

Bhaskar’s accomplishments extended well beyond the classroom.

He served as the Chief Financial Officer of Back on Track America, a student-led nonprofit organization that organized donation drives for homeless shelters and food banks. He also completed internships at a stock transfer agency and a private equity real estate firm, gaining valuable real-world experience before graduating.

In addition, he authored two research papers—one focusing on financial risk analysis and another on environmental conservation—demonstrating interests that reached far beyond traditional high school academics.

Teachers and school administrators say what impressed them most was not only his academic excellence but also his ability to remain active in clubs, community service, and friendships while handling such an intense workload.

A Family Surprise

Interestingly, even Bhaskar’s parents did not realize he was pursuing a state record.

His father, who holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and previously conducted cancer research, said the family knew their son earned excellent grades but had no idea he would graduate with the highest GPA in Florida history. The record came as a complete surprise.

A Record That Changed the System

Bhaskar’s remarkable achievement was made possible by Hillsborough County’s weighted GPA system, which awarded extra points for Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment courses. By successfully completing so many advanced classes, he accumulated a GPA that far exceeded the traditional 4.0 scale.

However, shortly after his graduation, the Hillsborough County School Board voted to introduce a cap on weighted GPAs beginning with future graduating classes.

School officials explained that the previous system often produced unusually high GPAs that colleges had to recalculate during admissions. They also expressed concerns that the policy encouraged students to overload themselves with excessive online courses, creating unnecessary stress and potential mental health challenges.

As a result, Bhaskar’s 11.99 GPA is expected to remain an unmatched chapter in the district’s history.

Looking Ahead

This fall, Bhaskar will begin studying economics at Duke University, one of the United States’ leading universities.

Although he enters college as the student who earned Florida’s highest recorded high school GPA, he approaches the next chapter with humility. He has even joked that he may not mention the record to his future roommate, preferring to start college life like any other freshman.

A Lesson Beyond Numbers

While 11.99 is an extraordinary number, Bhaskar’s story is ultimately about much more than a record GPA.

It is a reminder that meaningful success comes from curiosity, perseverance, and making the most of every opportunity. His journey shows that academic excellence can go hand in hand with leadership, service, and personal growth.

His record may never be broken—but the determination and passion that made it possible will continue to inspire students for years to come.

BIT Launches Full A-Level Scholarship for Outstanding Female Students in Bangladesh

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Recognizing the financial and practical challenges that many talented students face after completing their O Levels—particularly female students—Bangladesh International Tutorial (BIT) has introduced a prestigious new scholarship that will provide one outstanding female student with a fully funded A-Level education every year.

Named the Anowara Islam Scholarship, the initiative will cover the entire two-year A-Level program at BIT, including 100% tuition fees and admission fees. According to the institution, this is one of the few scholarship programs among English-medium schools in Bangladesh that fully finances an A-Level education for a high-achieving female student.

BIT announced that the first recipient of the Anowara Islam Scholarship will be revealed in October this year. The scholarship is designed not only to provide financial assistance but also to recognize exceptional academic excellence and leadership potential.

To be eligible, applicants must achieve the highest grades in at least nine O-Level subjects. In addition to academic performance, the selection process will evaluate candidates based on their leadership qualities, participation in extracurricular activities, and positive contributions beyond the classroom. The scholarship recipient will be chosen through a transparent, merit-based selection process.

The scholarship is named in honor of Anowara Islam, whose lifelong belief in the power of women’s education continues to inspire future generations. According to BIT, her vision motivated her daughter, Lubna Chowdhury, to establish Bangladesh International Tutorial (BIT) in 1983.

The scholarship has been introduced by Anika Rahman, a member of BIT’s Board of Directors. She is the daughter of BIT founder Lubna Chowdhury and the granddaughter of Anowara Islam.

Speaking about the initiative, Anika Rahman said, “My grandmother firmly believed that education has the power to transform a woman’s life. Through this scholarship, we want to carry forward that vision by supporting exceptionally talented young women. We hope it will inspire and empower the next generation of female leaders.”

From Army Soldier to Upwork Success: Muhaiminul Islam’s Inspiring Journey

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Former Bangladesh Army soldier Muhaiminul Islam has transformed his life from earning a modest government salary to becoming an internationally recognized SEO freelancer. Today, he earns around BDT 300,000 per month and has generated nearly $100,000 through freelance work on Upwork, making him an inspiring success story for aspiring freelancers in Bangladesh.

A Humble Beginning in Bagerhat

Muhaiminul Islam was born and raised in Morrelganj, Bagerhat, in a lower-middle-class family. He completed his Secondary School Certificate (SSC) from A.C. Laha Pilot Secondary School in 2016. The youngest among five siblings, he grew up with limited financial resources.

His father, the late Md. Sohrab Hossain Pahlan, was a small businessman, while his mother, Kohinur Begum, dedicated herself to raising the family. As a child, Muhaiminul loved drawing and cricket, and he dreamed of becoming an engineer. He enrolled at Khulna Polytechnic Institute to pursue a diploma in engineering, but financial hardship forced him to rethink his future.

Joining the Bangladesh Army

In 2018, while studying in the fourth semester of his diploma program, Muhaiminul joined the Bangladesh Army to support his family financially. He successfully passed the recruitment process on his first attempt.

During military training in 2019, he ranked 16th among 1,152 recruits, demonstrating discipline and determination. In 2020, he was posted to Bogura for active service.

Although military life offered financial stability, he realized it was not the career he truly wanted. He made the difficult decision to resign from his government job despite earning a secure salary.

A Life-Changing Decision

Leaving a permanent government position without a backup plan was one of the biggest risks of his life.

His decision shocked family members and relatives because he was the family’s primary income earner. However, one person stood firmly beside him—his wife, Israt Jahan.

Speaking about that difficult period, Muhaiminul says his success story would probably never have happened without her unconditional support.

He returned home with no clear roadmap. His only determination was that he would rather work in a hotel or do any honest job than spend his life doing something that did not inspire him.

Learning Computers from Absolute Scratch

Shortly after returning home, Muhaiminul first heard about freelancing through one of his brothers-in-law.

At that time, he had almost no computer knowledge. He didn’t even know how to turn a computer on.

Using the savings from his four years in the army, he purchased a second-hand laptop. He started learning the basics from YouTube, including how to operate a computer and perform simple copy-and-paste tasks.

Gradually, he began assisting his brother-in-law while teaching himself web design.

Discovering SEO Changed Everything

After nearly a year of learning different digital skills, Muhaiminul discovered Search Engine Optimization (SEO) in 2023.

SEO quickly became his passion.

By June 2024, he began working independently for international clients and steadily built a strong reputation through quality work and consistent performance.

His dedication paid off rapidly.

In 2025, he earned Upwork’s prestigious Top Rated badge, followed by the even more exclusive Top Rated Plus status. He also secured opportunities to work as an SEO Strategist for two well-known marketing agencies in the United States.

Nearly $100,000 Earned Through Freelancing

Muhaiminul’s freelance journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

His earnings on Upwork alone have reached approximately $50,000, while his total freelance income over the past two and a half years has climbed to nearly $100,000—equivalent to more than BDT 12 million.

Today, his average monthly income is around BDT 300,000, far exceeding the salary he once earned in government service.

Personal Loss During Professional Success

As his professional career reached new heights, tragedy struck his family.

On November 11, 2025, Muhaiminul lost his beloved father, Md. Sohrab Hossain Pahlan.

Although his father did not get the opportunity to fully witness his son’s extraordinary achievements, Muhaiminul continues to pursue excellence while honoring the dreams and sacrifices of his parents.

He also expresses deep gratitude to his mother, family members, and relatives, many of whom initially questioned his decision but later became his strongest supporters.

Building an SEO Team for the Future

Muhaiminul is no longer working alone.

He has established an SEO team called Flask SEO, bringing together close friends and younger professionals who share his vision.

His goal is not only to grow his own career but also to create employment opportunities, mentor aspiring freelancers, and contribute to Bangladesh’s expanding digital economy.

An Inspiration for Future Freelancers

Muhaiminul Islam’s journey proves that success is not determined by one’s starting point but by persistence, continuous learning, and the courage to embrace uncertainty.

From a soldier earning a modest government salary to becoming a globally recognized SEO expert, Upwork Top Rated Plus freelancer, and six-figure freelance professional, his story serves as a powerful reminder that determination, the right skills, and unwavering support can transform an ordinary life into an extraordinary one.

Bangladeshi Students Win Awards at the International World Summit 2026 in Malaysia

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Bangladeshi students have achieved remarkable success at the International World Summit 2026 held in Malaysia, securing a total of 60 international awards through their participation in the English World Cup and the Science Olympiad. The achievements came through an 18-member delegation led by the International Olympiads Bangladesh (IOB).

Bangladesh’s outstanding haul includes 27 Gold Medals, 4 Silver Medals, 3 Platinum Awards, 2 Diamond Awards, 9 International Rankings, 4 Dean Awards, 4 Kazakhstan Special Awards, 4 Best Presentation/Best Experimental Scientist Awards, 1 Judges’ Choice Award, 1 Malaysia Special Award, and 1 Science President Award. Among the 18 participants, 17 students earned at least one international award.

Among this year’s participants, Mohammad Arham Johan of Anandaniketan School and College, Sylhet, emerged as Bangladesh’s top performer by winning 13 international awards, the highest by any Bangladeshi participant. Aniruddha Niladri Biswas of SFX Greenherald International School achieved the second-highest distinction, bringing home 11 international awards.

In addition to the competitions, members of the Bangladesh delegation visited the University of Cyberjaya, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, the National Museum of Malaysia, the Petronas Twin Towers, and Istana Negara. The educational tour provided students with valuable firsthand exposure to international education, research, culture, and technology, while also offering opportunities to exchange knowledge and cultural experiences with students from different countries.

Commenting on the achievement, Kamruddin Nishan, Founder and Managing Director of IOB, said, “Bangladeshi students have demonstrated exceptional talent, creativity, and research-based skills on the international stage. This achievement will inspire them to move forward with greater confidence and continue representing Bangladesh with pride around the world.”

Md. Habibul Alam Shimul, Founder and Director of IOB, added, “Bangladesh’s success in international Olympiads reflects the immense potential of our education system. We hope that more students from across the country will participate in international competitions and continue to raise Bangladesh’s flag even higher on the global stage.”

Award Winners

  • Ahnaf Tajwar — English: Gold Medal, International Ranking-2, Kazakhstan Special Award | Science: Gold Medal
  • Md. Wakif Ullah Ismam — English: Silver Medal | Science: Silver Medal
  • Maimanah Jannat Rahman — English: Gold Medal, International Ranking-2 | Science: Gold Medal
  • Monjur Arsh Ahsan — English: Gold Medal | Science: Gold Medal
  • Md. Zaim Hasan — English: Gold Medal | Science: Gold Medal
  • Jahin Abdullah — English: Gold Medal, International Ranking-3 | Science: Gold Medal, Kazakhstan Special Award
  • Jarir Ayan Amin — English: Gold Medal | Science: Gold Medal
  • Mohammad Arham Johan — English: Gold Medal, International Ranking-1, Platinum Award, Dean Award, Best Presentation Award, Judges’ Choice Award | Science: Gold Medal, Platinum Award, International Ranking-2, Dean Award, Best Experimental Scientist Award, Kazakhstan Special Award
  • Nazia Zarin — Science: Gold Medal
  • Araf Rahman — English: Gold Medal | Science: Gold Medal
  • Most. Miftahul Jannat — English: Gold Medal | Science: Silver Medal
  • Prantik Debsharma Pinak — English: Gold Medal | Science: Silver Medal
  • Sarfaraz Mahmud Ruaifi — English: Gold Medal | Science: Gold Medal, Malaysia Special Award
  • Arsh Anam Ruaifi — Participant
  • Uzayer Dil Arham — English: Gold Medal, International Ranking-1, Diamond Award, Kazakhstan Special Award
  • Zarin Tasnim Zara — English: Gold Medal
  • Aniruddha Niladri Biswas — English: Gold Medal, International Ranking-1, Diamond Award, Dean Award, Best Presentation Award | Science: Gold Medal, Platinum Award, International Ranking-3, Dean Award, Science President Award
  • Fairuz Binte Zakaria — English: Gold Medal, International Ranking-2, Best Presentation Award | Science: Gold Medal

Mahira Elsa: A Young Mind with Extraordinary Potential

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Some children discover their passion early in life. Others redefine what childhood itself can achieve. At just twelve years old, Mahira Elsa belongs to the latter.

A gifted public speaker, talented artist, graceful dancer, passionate singer, skilled karate practitioner, confident skater, and young computer coder, Mahira has already built a remarkable portfolio of achievements. Beyond her talents, she has earned admiration for her confidence, discipline, creativity, and ability to inspire audiences through her presence on stage. Whether addressing a large gathering, hosting prestigious events, creating works of art, or exploring the world of technology, she approaches every challenge with enthusiasm and determination.

Her journey is a powerful reminder that age is never a barrier to excellence. With curiosity as her compass and perseverance as her strength, Mahira continues to prove that young minds are capable of extraordinary accomplishments when talent is nurtured with dedication.

This is the story of Mahira Elsa—a story of dreams, hard work, and limitless possibilities.

Hopes and dreams aren’t too far too reach, starting from a young age, Mahira Elsa shows that.

Born on May 22, 2014 in Barishal, Elsa had always shown interest in English. Learning English on her own with no help from superiors, but rather her family. Her parents quickly picked up on their daughter’s talents and took her to the best English version school at the time at age 4. Even as a toddler she always tried to go beyond reaching limits of education, eager to know more and more.

Teachers and her parents always supported her to go further and beyond, this is how the journey of Mahira Elsa begins. Not just by luck.

Growing Talents
Back then, English wasn’t available for most in English, but Mahira Elsa surprisingly caught on with native English when she was only six. Catching the attention of her principal sir. Not only that, but her school knew that she was capable of giving speeches ever since she was four. In fact, she has given many speeches during projects, national memorials, and even a speech for 12th year celebration of her school. And all of those speeches were created by her and executed greatly from a toddler. But immaculate speech isn’t the only surprising gift she has.
that small spark of Hope was all that Elsa needed to find out everything about herself, even if she was just setting foot into a new world

Hidden Talents


Gifted kids aren’t unheard of, but then there’s Elsa who tries everything with her gift to figure out more. Curious to find out what she is capable of, and that curiosity lead to many roads. Like with a stroke of her pencil, she began to show love for something new, art! and even to this day she draws every chance she gets. But by drawing those shapes, cutting them, and sticking them together. She found that crafting has been apart of her ever since she picked that paper


She used to read many books for children and some beyond her limit.She noticed in fantasy books that children could do everything! Like reading , writing,and everything that people would consider impossible for a child, but not Elsa, she thought ‘Why keep it a fantasy? Why not make it real?’ So she asked her mother to enroll her into lessons. Like swimming, playing the guitar, cycling, skating, playing the keyboard, chess, Karate, Quran recitation, video editing, programming, dancing, singing.
But there are many talents she had to learn on her own. one of such are cycling, skating, chess with her family, and video editing. It wasn’t easy, but Elsa is a girl who never gave up and kept striving, knowing that there’s more to learn and achieve.

Achievements

As a kid, many adults around her noticed that she was always bright in academic studies and achieved many gifts in extra curricular activities. And when she was 7-8. Like in example, her first ever competition was Math Genie, hosted by her school. She may not have won, but she decided that she should step out to achieve more, starting small from swimming, then slowly her way to skating. And achieved crests from both, which helped her grow more confident. So from there one she made her way to dancing, the achievements started small from competitions who acknowledged her. But then she got nationally recognized as 1st by the competition in the whole Division. So she took a competition. One of the first major competitions in her life. Bake’s man Third International Language Leaugue. Securing as the champion by winning over multiple schools, it wasn’t easy. But getting achievements rooted a small seed of Determination.
She wouldn’t stop at English, she would take part in Art Competitions as well, such as KPR Art Competition! Selected to go to Nepal and India for her artistic talents.


“So why not writing this time?” She used to think. So she first took part of The Queen’s Commonwealth Writing Competition (RCS) in 2024. And with many drafts, re-writes and such. She managed to submit her work, and in a few months, it was revealed her place was secured as Bronze Award. But why stop at Bronze? So again in 2025, she gave another entry to the writing competition once more. This time the results came back with pleasant news, Her place was secured as The Silver Award.
And very recently in Zero Olympiad, she has made an astonishing achievement by being one of their eight anchors and a finalist! Not only that, but she was announced as SDG 1’s First Runner Up. It wasn’t a first time experience for her, as she was an anchor for Swapnojoy Program (NTV)

Where is she now?


Currently , Mahira Elsa is working as a child journalist, a small break from so many competitions. Working side by side with Lal Sabuj Society and as a news reporter for Lal Sabuj Prokash.Not only that, but she is also an actor in Hello Barishal, and a model for B2 Barishal branch and TopTen Barishal branch. And just a small fun fact, her dance was also shown on NTV. But many around her wonder, which hobby will she follow now? There are so many!
She’s a Climate Activist, and a youth leader. Striving to get the word of Climate Change out to the young minds like her. But not all young minds can learn something as big as Climate Change without knowing at least a bit of English. So that’s why Elsa has a few channels to help out the younger children that wish to be like her. She wishes to help them too,

Always remember. “If you give up, you’re closing your endless paths of futures”

Passion for Vlogging

Mahira Elsa has a deep passion for vlogging and digital storytelling. She loves exploring new places and documenting her travel experiences through engaging videos. Whenever she visits a new destination, she captures its natural beauty, culture, landmarks, and memorable moments with creativity and enthusiasm.

She edits her videos and shares them on her Facebook page and YouTube channel, where she enjoys connecting with her audience and inspiring others to discover the world around them. Through her vlogs, Mahira not only preserves her own travel memories but also encourages young people to explore, learn, and appreciate different places and cultures.

The Desert Child (2026)

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Hey friends! Do you like adventures? Do you like animals? If yes, then tie your seatbelts, because today we are going on a journey to a giant, sandy world with a movie called “The Desert Child.”

Imagine living in a place where there are no Xboxes, no TVs, and no ice cream shops. Just golden sand, beautiful stars, and hot wind. Sounds crazy, right? But for our little hero, Kaleb, this is home!

Let’s find out what happens in his amazing story.

🎬 The Story: A Boy and His Ostrich Friend 🏃‍♂️💨

Kaleb is a brave little boy who lives in the middle of the famous Sahara Desert. He doesn’t go to a normal school with desks and blackboards. Instead, the desert is his school, and his family teaches him how to find water and follow the stars.

One sunny day, Kaleb finds something very special. It’s a giant egg! And guess what cracks open? A fluffy, cute little baby Ostrich (উটপাখি)! Kaleb names him Zazu.

Since Zazu doesn’t have a mommy, Kaleb becomes his best friend and protector. They do everything together!

  • They race across the giant sand dunes.
  • They play hide-and-seek behind rocks.
  • They share water from Kaleb’s little canteen.

But living in the desert is not easy. One day, a huge, scary sandstorm hits! The wind howls like a monster, and the sky turns completely red. Kaleb and Zazu get separated from Kaleb’s family. Oh no!

Now, a small boy and a young ostrich are all alone in the deep, dangerous desert.

🧠 Movie Explanation: How Do They Survive? 🤝

This is where the movie becomes super exciting! It’s like a puzzle game. Kaleb has to remember everything his father taught him.

He uses his smart brain to look at the plants to find hidden water under the sand. And Zazu, with his big ostrich eyes and super-fast legs, helps Kaleb spot danger from far away, like hungry desert foxes!

They protect each other. When Kaleb is too tired to walk, Zazu stays by his side to keep him warm during the freezing desert night. It shows that friendship doesn’t need words—a human boy and a bird can understand each other perfectly!

⭐ Why You Will Love This Movie! 😍

  1. It’s Real! There are no cartoons or fake animations here. You will see a real, amazing kid actor running around with real animals!
  2. Beautiful Colors: The desert looks like a magical golden playground, especially when the sun sets and the sky turns purple and orange.
  3. The Big Lesson: This movie teaches us to be brave when things get tough, and to always care for nature and animals.

🏆 My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5 out of 5 Stars!)

It is a heartwarming, thrilling, and beautiful movie. You will laugh, you might get a little scared during the storm, but in the end, you will cheer out loud for Kaleb and Zazu!

What to do next:
You can watch the official trailer of “The Desert Child” on YouTube to see how fast Zazu the ostrich can run! Would you like me to find the best keywords to search for its trailer on YouTube, or want to know more about real-life desert animals?

Bangladesh Shines on the World Mathematics Invitational (WMI) 2026

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Bangladesh has achieved a remarkable milestone in international mathematics by securing an extraordinary 100% success rate at the World Mathematics Invitational (WMI) 2026, held in Chiba, Japan. Every member of the country’s 27-member national team returned home with a medal or award, marking a historic achievement for Bangladesh on one of the world’s most prestigious mathematics competition platforms.

The competition brought together nearly 2,300 of the world’s brightest young mathematicians from more than 30 countries, creating an intensely competitive environment. Demonstrating exceptional analytical ability and problem-solving skills, the Bangladeshi students delivered one of the nation’s finest performances in international mathematics.

The entire national team’s preparation, training, selection, and participation were successfully organized by Banglar Math, which has been working to nurture mathematically gifted students and prepare them for global competitions.

Bangladesh’s medal tally included an impressive collection of international honors:

  • 2 Diamond Awards
  • 2 Gold Medals
  • 6 Silver Medals
  • 14 Bronze Medals
  • 3 Merit Awards
  • 1 Grade Top 3 Award (Second Place Internationally)

Several students delivered truly outstanding performances. Ahbab Zulkifal Jahin earned one of the competition’s highest distinctions, the Diamond Award. Jeet Bala achieved a remarkable double success by winning both a Diamond Award and securing Grade Top 3 (Second Place Internationally). Sajidul Haque captured a Gold Medal and, as the highest scorer in the Bangladesh team, was honored with the prestigious Star of the World Award. Meanwhile, Rahid Azad Ahon also brought glory to the nation by winning a Gold Medal.

Reflecting on the historic achievement, Ahmed Shahriar, Co-founder of Banglar Math, said:

“Our mission extends beyond winning medals. We aspire to build a generation capable of leading the world through logical thinking, creativity, and advanced problem-solving skills. This achievement is another significant step toward that vision.”

The team’s Head Coach and Co-founder, Md. Ashraful Al Shakur, congratulated the students and acknowledged the dedication behind the success.

“This accomplishment is the result of years of disciplined preparation, the students’ relentless hard work, and the unwavering support of their parents. We firmly believe Bangladesh will achieve even greater success in international mathematics competitions in the years ahead.”

The national team was selected through the Banglar Math Excellence Championship (BMEC) 2026, a nationwide competition held across Bangladesh. Thousands of students from different districts participated, and after multiple competitive rounds—including the rigorous Team Selection Test (TST)—the country’s top 27 young mathematicians earned their places on the national team.

To prepare them for the global stage, Banglar Math provided advanced training, intensive mentoring, and comprehensive guidance. Asia Pacific University served as the Venue Partner for this prestigious national initiative, while The Daily Campus joined as the official Media Partner.

The remarkable success at WMI 2026 not only highlights the exceptional talent of Bangladesh’s young mathematicians but also reflects the country’s growing presence in international academic competitions. It stands as an inspiring testament to what dedication, quality training, and perseverance can achieve on the world stage.

Breaking Barriers in Tech: How Nusaiba Tazreen Tanisha is Coding Her Way to Global Stardom

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In an era where technology drives the future, youth across the globe are stepping up to solve tomorrow’s problems today. Leading this charge from Bangladesh is Nusaiba Tazreen Tanisha, a brilliant student from YWCA Higher Secondary Girls’ School. With a fierce passion for coding, robotics, and innovation, Nusaiba has rapidly transitioned from a classroom dreamer to an internationally acclaimed robotics prodigy.

The Journey of an International Olympian

Nusaiba’s footprint on the global tech stage is nothing short of extraordinary. Representing Bangladesh at the prestigious International Robot Olympiad (IRO), she has consistently brought home glory through years of dedication:

  • 26th IRO (Busan, South Korea): Competing against participants from 26 countries, Nusaiba achieved massive success in the Senior High group, clinching a Silver Medal in Creative Movie and a Bronze Medal in Physical Computing.
  • 24th IRO (Phuket, Thailand): Showcased early international dominance by winning a Bronze Medal in the “Robot in Movie” challenge category with her teammates.
  • Continuous Legacy: Her tech streak extended into the subsequent 27th IRO, maintaining her streak as one of the most reliable and high-performing young minds in the national robotics circuit.

Behind these shiny medals lies an grueling routine. As Nusaiba noted on her LinkedIn Profile, making it to the international stage meant navigating four highly competitive national selection rounds, enduring intensive high-performance training camps, and coding late into the night—all while simultaneously managing her high school final exams.

Master of Code and Virtual Worlds

What sets Nusaiba apart is her versatility across multiple domains of computer science. She is fluent in powerful programming languages like Python, C, C++, and R, allowing her to build software hardware integrations effortlessly.

Beyond robotics engineering, she has extended her creativity to Game Development. Using industry-grade platforms like the Unity game engine, Nusaiba designs interactive virtual spaces, proving that her technical acumen is beautifully balanced with creative storytelling.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Girls in STEM

Nusaiba’s achievements go far beyond individual accolades. In a field historically dominated by men, her presence on international podiums serves as a powerful message to young girls across Bangladesh and South Asia: the future of tech belongs to anyone willing to build it.

Her research alignments and work through advanced platforms show an intersectional approach to tech—using robotics and programming to tackle contemporary, real-world issues like climate change.

A Vision for Tomorrow

As Nusaiba continues to push boundaries with new research endeavors and next-gen tech challenges, her journey is a testament to what the youth of Bangladesh can achieve when passion meets perseverance. She is no longer just a participant in the digital landscape—she is actively designing it.

Aniruddha Niladri Biswas: A Rising Bangladeshi Star on the International Stage

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Aniruddha Niladri Biswas is a talented young Bangladeshi student whose remarkable achievements have brought pride to his country on the international stage. A Grade 5 student at SFX Greenherald International School in Dhaka, he has already demonstrated exceptional excellence in English, science, and public presentation through his outstanding performances in global academic competitions.

In July 2026, Aniruddha represented Bangladesh at two prestigious international competitions held in Malaysia—the International English World Cup Olympiad 2026 and the International Science Olympiad. Competing against students from seven different countries, he showcased extraordinary knowledge, confidence, and communication skills, earning widespread recognition.

His exceptional performance resulted in an impressive collection of 11 international awards, including the highest honour, the President Special Award. His achievements also include the Champion Award, Platinum Award, two Dean Awards, two Diamond Awards, two Gold Awards, Best Presenter Award, and a Ranking Award. These accomplishments reflect not only his academic brilliance but also his dedication, discipline, and passion for learning.

Beyond academics, Aniruddha has proven that age is no barrier to excellence. His ability to compete successfully with talented students from different countries demonstrates his strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and determination to excel in every challenge he undertakes.

Aniruddha comes from a family that highly values education and professional excellence. His father, Dr. Nirmal Kanti Biswas, is a Senior Consultant in the Department of Orthopaedics at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), widely known as the National Orthopaedic Hospital and Rehabilitation Institute. His mother, Dr. Kakoli Halder, serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Dhaka Medical College.

As one of Bangladesh’s promising young achievers, Aniruddha Niladri Biswas serves as an inspiration to students across the country. His international success highlights the immense potential of Bangladeshi youth and reinforces the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence. With such an impressive start to his academic journey, he is undoubtedly a young talent to watch in the years ahead.

Twelve-Year-Old Nusrat Jahan Lamyea Represents Bangladesh at International English Olympiad in Thailand

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Some journeys are measured by trophies, while others are measured by the courage to carry a nation’s flag onto an international stage.

At just twelve years old, Nusrat Jahan Lamyea, a seventh-grade student of Narail Government Girls’ High School, has already built an inspiring story through determination, confidence, and an unwavering passion for the English language. Representing Bangladesh at the International English Language Olympiad (IELO) in Thailand, she proved that young dreamers from small districts can confidently compete on the global stage.

Lamyea’s journey has never been limited to classrooms. Alongside her studies, she has developed herself as a young journalist, English educator, content creator, and public speaker. Through every opportunity she has received, she has continued to inspire students to believe that age is never a barrier to achieving something extraordinary.

A major part of her English-learning journey has been shaped by RDM English School. Through regular English-speaking practice, interactive learning activities, and constant encouragement from her mentors, Lamyea gradually transformed her passion into confidence. The platform played an important role in helping her prepare for national and international competitions while strengthening her communication skills.

A Dream That Started in Narail

Growing up in Narail, Lamyea always believed that learning English could open doors far beyond the boundaries of her hometown. Her curiosity, confidence, and willingness to challenge herself soon led her to participate in different language competitions, public speaking events, journalism activities, and academic programs.

Over the years, she earned recognition in several competitions and educational initiatives, building a reputation as a dedicated learner who never stopped improving herself.

Lamyea with her Father

Conquering Every Stage

Lamyea’s journey to the international stage was anything but easy.

She secured First Place in the Preliminary Round of the International English Language Olympiad before once again earning First Place in the National Round, becoming one of the students selected to represent Bangladesh internationally.

Her achievement brought immense pride not only to her family and teachers but also to her district, as she stepped onto the international stage wearing the colors of Bangladesh.

The next chapter of her journey unfolded in Thailand, where participants from different countries gathered to compete in the Semi-Final Round of the International English Language Olympiad.

Although the competition did not follow the question pattern that participants from Bangladesh had been prepared for, Lamyea approached every challenge with confidence and determination. She successfully represented her country with dignity and received an international medal and certificate in recognition of her participation and performance.

Sometimes, the greatest achievement is not measured by qualification alone,it is the courage to stand among the world’s talented students and proudly represent your homeland.

More Than One Achievement

Beyond international competitions, Lamyea has continued to build an impressive profile through journalism, education, and leadership.

She has worked as a young journalist, shared educational content, and inspired other students through her communication skills. Her passion for teaching English and helping young learners reflects her belief that knowledge becomes more meaningful when it is shared with others.

These experiences have made her more than a competitor,they have shaped her into a role model for many young students who dream of achieving something extraordinary.

Eight-Year-Old Samina Nur Taj Becomes Asia’s Top Young English Champion

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Dreams have no age limit. Sometimes, the biggest achievements begin in the smallest towns.

Eight-year-old Samina Nur Taj, a second-grade student from Kaliakair in Bangladesh’s Gazipur district, has captured the attention of an entire continent after becoming Asia’s top young English competitor at the Hippo International English Olympiad 2026.

Her remarkable achievement has not only made her family and school proud but has also become a source of inspiration for millions of children across Bangladesh.

A significant part of Samina’s English-learning journey has been her training at RDM English School. The institution has gained recognition in Bangladesh for encouraging children and teenagers to develop practical English communication skills. Through its online learning activities, students are regularly motivated to speak English with confidence and share videos on the school’s Facebook page and community group, showcasing their progress and fluency. This interactive approach has helped many young learners improve their communication skills, and Samina is among the students who have benefited from the program.

A Journey That Started with a Dream

Although Samina was born in Mesta village of Jamalpur district, she now lives with her family in Kaliakair, Gazipur. Her educational journey began in 2023 when she enrolled in the nursery class at Afaz Uddin Memorial School and College.

From the very beginning, teachers noticed her curiosity, determination, and love for learning. She soon started participating in various academic competitions, consistently demonstrating exceptional talent and confidence beyond her years.

From an early age, Samina has consistently excelled in academic and language competitions. Over the past few years, she has participated in numerous school, regional, and institutional contests, earning several awards and accolades for her outstanding performances. Each achievement has strengthened her confidence and prepared her for bigger stages, ultimately leading to her remarkable success at the Hippo International English Olympiad.

Samina with her Teachers

Conquering Every Stage

Winning the Asian title was anything but easy.

Samina first qualified through the Dhaka regional selection round held on April 25. She then secured second place in the national finals in Narayanganj on May 23, earning the right to represent Bangladesh internationally.

The biggest challenge came on July 3, when she competed in the Hippo International English Olympiad 2026 in Thailand.

Facing talented young contestants from across Asia, Samina delivered an outstanding performance and emerged as Asia’s First Place Winner, bringing international recognition to Bangladesh.

Gratitude Behind the Success

Despite her young age, Samina remains humble about her achievement.

She credits her success to the unwavering support of her teachers, her school, and her parents, saying they encouraged her every step of the way and helped her believe in herself.

The World Stage Awaits

Samina’s journey is far from over.

Her next destination is Italy, where the Universal Round of the Hippo International English Olympiad will take place from September 28 to October 3.

There, she will compete against some of the world’s brightest young English learners, carrying the hopes and pride of Bangladesh onto the global stage.

A Family That Believes in Her Dreams

Samina’s mother, Tajima Khatun, says her family will always support whatever career their daughter chooses in the future.

“We will stand beside her and help her achieve whatever she dreams of becoming,” she said, while requesting everyone’s prayers for her daughter’s continued success.

Her father, Sanowar Hossain Mamun, already dreams big.

He hopes to see Samina become a world-class software engineer one day.

“Becoming Asia’s champion has made us incredibly proud. We believe she can achieve another great success at the world competition in Italy,” he said.

A School Standing Beside Its Star

Samina’s achievement has brought immense pride to Afaz Uddin Memorial School and College.

The school recently organized a special reception to celebrate her success, attended by teachers, students, parents, and local community leaders.

In recognition of her extraordinary accomplishment, the institution’s Founder and Chairman, Alhaj Md. Jalil Uddin, announced that the school will bear all of Samina’s educational expenses through Grade 12. Even more remarkably, the institution has also pledged to finance her entire university education.

The announcement reflects not only the school’s confidence in Samina’s future but also its commitment to nurturing exceptional talent.

An Inspiration Beyond Medals

Samina Nur Taj’s story is about much more than winning an English competition.

It is a reminder that talent can emerge from anywhere, regardless of age or background. With encouragement, quality education, and determination, even a child from a small town can compete with the best in Asia.

As she prepares for the global finals in Italy, Bangladesh will be cheering for one little girl carrying a nation’s hopes on her young shoulders.

Whether she returns with another trophy or not, Samina has already achieved something priceless—she has inspired countless young dreamers to believe that no dream is too big, and no child is too small to make history.

Rafika Islam: A Young Voice of Leadership, Creativity, and Inspiration

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At an age when many children are still discovering their interests, Rafika Islam has already built an inspiring journey filled with leadership, creativity, communication, and continuous learning. Born in 2015 in Zigatola, Dhanmondi, Hazaribagh, Dhaka, Rafika is currently a Grade 6 student at Birshrestha Munshi Abdur Rouf Public College, Dhaka. Despite her young age, she has established herself as a talented and dedicated individual with remarkable achievements in education, communication, and skill development.

Rafika’s passion for learning and self-improvement has shaped her into a confident young achiever. Her areas of expertise include presentation, public speaking, news presenting, voice artistry, ESL training, video content creation, graphic design, and freelancing. Through her excellent communication skills and creative mindset, she continues to inspire other young learners to dream big and work hard.

One of Rafika’s most notable achievements is her role as an ESL Trainer at TESOL Bangladesh, a position she has proudly held since Grade 4. Specializing in Phonics, she helps young learners improve their English pronunciation, reading fluency, and communication skills. Her dedication to teaching at such a young age reflects both her leadership qualities and her passion for empowering others through education.

Rafika With Faatiha Aayat

In addition to her training experience, Rafika actively participates in national and international competitions and academic programs. She serves as an ambassador for various educational and skill-based initiatives, including English Olympiad programs and other prestigious competitions. Her talent and dedication have earned her more than 40 certificates from different achievements and competitions.

Rafika is also Google and Meta Certified, a remarkable accomplishment for someone of her age. Her exceptional performance in international programs has placed her among the Top 10 participants worldwide, bringing pride and recognition to her community and country.

Rafika with Yeasir Sir

Beyond academics and professional achievements, Rafika is deeply involved in co-curricular activities. She enjoys poem recitation, anchoring, presentations, and creative performances that strengthen her confidence and public speaking abilities. Her hobbies, including reading books and drawing, further enhance her imagination, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

What makes Rafika truly exceptional is her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. She believes in using her skills and knowledge to inspire and empower others through communication, education, and innovation. With her determination, confidence, and passion for growth, Rafika Islam represents a new generation of young leaders who are ready to make a positive impact on society.

As she continues her journey, Rafika dreams of achieving even greater success while motivating young people around her to believe in themselves, embrace learning, and create meaningful change in the world. You can visit Rafikas Facebook Page.

Why Seed Funding Matters for Young People

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Will higher education in Bangladesh continue to produce only job seekers, or will it also nurture entrepreneurs, innovators, and future job creators? This question has become increasingly important today. On one hand, the country’s unemployment rate stands at 3.51 percent, with nearly 2.59 million unemployed people. On the other hand, around 2 to 2.2 million young people enter the labor market every year. Although the average unemployment rate in 2023 was 3.36 percent, pressure on the labor market has not eased; rather, anxiety among educated youth has continued to grow. In this context, the question of why seed funding is important for young people deserves national attention.

Against this backdrop, the idea of introducing seed funding on university campuses is highly significant. The announcement and commitment made by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to launch seed funding initiatives in universities carries an important message: encouraging young people to move beyond a job-dependent mindset toward entrepreneurial thinking. If policymakers can integrate this initiative into broader higher education reforms and employment strategies, it could become not just a political promise, but a genuine tool for transformation.

What Is Seed Funding?

Seed funding refers to financial and institutional support provided to a new initiative, startup, or innovative idea at its earliest stage. For example, a student may have a promising idea related to agricultural technology, food safety, dairy and poultry, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, healthcare, or digital services, but lack the capital, training, or guidance to begin. Seed funding can open that first door of opportunity.

In other words, seed funding is not just about giving money; it is about helping transform an idea into a real initiative. When combined with training, mentorship, and market access, it enables students to become creators of opportunities instead of merely searching for jobs.

Why Is It Important for Young People?

To understand its importance, we must look at the realities of Bangladesh’s labor market. The country’s total labor force stands at 73.05 million, of which 70.47 million are employed. However, a large portion of these jobs are informal and lack stability, productivity, and long-term security.

At the same time, every year another 2 to 2.2 million young people enter the workforce. It is impossible for the government or private sector alone to absorb all of them through conventional employment. Therefore, new sources of employment must be created. This is where seed funding becomes crucial, because it encourages young people to shift from seeking jobs to creating jobs.

Does Money Alone Create Entrepreneurs?

No. Simply providing money does not create entrepreneurs. Turning a good idea into a sustainable business requires training, mentorship, business planning, market understanding, technological support, and accountability. Therefore, seed funding should not be viewed merely as financial assistance; it must be part of a comprehensive support system.

If universities establish innovation and entrepreneurship cells involving teachers, researchers, successful entrepreneurs, bankers, industry representatives, and technology experts, students receiving funding will also receive guidance and direction. This would reduce the risk of wasted resources and increase the likelihood of successful ventures.

Should Universities Only Provide Degrees?

This discussion naturally raises questions about the role of universities. Educated unemployment has become deeply concerning. Nearly 800,000 university graduates in Bangladesh are unemployed. The youth unemployment rate stands at 10.6 percent, while unemployment among graduates and postgraduates is nearly 45 percent. In addition, 83 percent of unemployed people are between the ages of 15 and 29.

These statistics clearly show that universities cannot remain institutions that only distribute certificates. They must become centers of research, innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship. Students’ ideas in agriculture, food safety, dairy, poultry, healthcare, technology, education, and environmental sustainability should be transformed into practical products and services. Only then will higher education become truly meaningful.

From Political Commitment to National Program

To make this new university role effective, campus-based initiatives alone are not enough; a coordinated national strategy is required. Another important reality is that the government recruits only around 71,000 people into public sector jobs annually. Furthermore, only about one-quarter of “decent” jobs exist in the public sector. For each BCS position, nearly 200 candidates apply. At the same time, 78 percent of young people express concerns about employment.

This means that most young people are still competing for a narrow employment path that cannot accommodate everyone. Therefore, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s seed funding initiative should not remain just a promise—it should evolve into a national program. University-based funding, idea competitions, mentoring, prototype support, industry partnerships, and market access should all be integrated into a comprehensive ecosystem. Only then will young people have meaningful alternatives.

Which Sectors Should Be Prioritized?

Seed funding should focus on sectors closely connected to Bangladesh’s economy, society, and future development goals. These include:

  • Agricultural technology
  • Food safety and food processing
  • Dairy and poultry industries
  • Fisheries
  • Healthcare services
  • Environmentally friendly products
  • Waste management
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Cybersecurity
  • Digital services
  • Educational technology

This approach would ensure that startups are not merely personal business ventures but also contributors to solving national challenges.

Will Universities Outside Dhaka Receive Equal Opportunities?

Another important issue is whether these opportunities will remain limited to Dhaka and a few major universities. If the initiative becomes too capital-centric, its impact will be limited. Universities in Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet, Barishal, Rangpur, and Mymensingh must receive equal importance.

Every region of Bangladesh possesses unique economic strengths and opportunities. Local universities should be connected to local challenges and industries so that entrepreneurship development can directly benefit regional economies.

What If Transparency Is Missing?

Even the best initiative can fail if transparency and accountability are absent. Favoritism, political influence, paper-based projects, and opaque management systems could weaken the entire program. Therefore, project selection must be conducted through open competition. Independent evaluation boards should oversee the process. Information regarding funding allocation, project selection, and progress updates should be made public.

Step-by-step funding mechanisms would also increase accountability and reduce misuse of resources.

The Role of Teachers and University Administration

Teachers are not merely classroom instructors; they can become mentors, advisors, and guides for innovation. University administrations must create environments where students can experiment with ideas, launch pilot initiatives, and learn even from failure.

Developing a culture of entrepreneurship within campuses requires active support from both faculty members and administrators.

Implementation Matters More Than Announcements

Ultimately, Bangladesh’s labor market realities are clear: on one side, there are nearly 2.59 million unemployed people; on the other, another 2 to 2.2 million young people enter the workforce every year. At the same time, there are around 800,000 unemployed university graduates competing intensely for limited jobs.

In this reality, seed funding is not merely a financing initiative—it can become a practical pathway toward innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment generation.

If Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s announcement is implemented effectively, universities in Bangladesh could produce not only job seekers, but also job creators. With proper planning, transparency, mentorship, and institutional support, seed funding could truly become a new pathway for empowering young entrepreneurs.

Written by: Dr. A.K.M. Humayun Kabir (Teacher, researcher, and writer) at Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University.
Email: [email protected]

The Boy Who Stole the Spotlight: The Story of Tius Luka

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Tius Luka jogs off after performing with Katy Perry before the start of the World Cup Group D soccer match between Paraguay and the United States in Inglewood, Calif., near Los Angeles, Friday, June 12, 2026. (AP Photo/Jayne Kamin-Oncea)

When millions of football fans around the world tuned in to watch the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, they expected dazzling lights, superstar performances, and celebrity appearances. And they got all of that. Pop icon Katy Perry delivered a spectacular performance at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium, while celebrities — including former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau — watched from the audience.

But surprisingly, one of the biggest talking points of the night was not a global superstar. It was a small boy standing beside Katy Perry, singing confidently in front of the world.

That boy is Tius Luka.

At just 10 years old, Tias Luca suddenly became an internet sensation after appearing with Katy Perry during her emotional performance of Wonder at the FIFA World Cup 2026 opening ceremony.

A Voice That Inspired a Song

Tius Luka is originally from Norway, and according to several entertainment reports, Katy Perry first discovered his voice years ago. The singer reportedly heard recordings of Tius when he was only five years old, and his innocent, emotional singing later inspired her song Wonder from her 2024 album 143.

That connection between a global pop star and a young child eventually led to one of the most memorable moments of the World Cup opening ceremony.

As Katy Perry appeared on stage in a shimmering silver gown, she invited Tius Luka to join her for the performance. Together, they sang Wonder while dancers carrying flags from different nations surrounded them, symbolizing unity and hope — values closely associated with the FIFA World Cup.

From Unknown Child to Global Attention

Before the World Cup ceremony, very few people outside social media circles knew who Tius Luka was. But within hours of the performance, clips of the young singer spread across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Reddit.

Fans praised his confidence, stage presence, and surprisingly mature vocals for someone so young. Many viewers described the duet as the emotional highlight of the ceremony. Even on online forums and fan communities, discussions quickly shifted from Katy Perry’s performance to curiosity about the little boy beside her.

For many viewers, Tius represented something special: the reminder that music can create stars overnight, regardless of age.

Singing on the World’s Biggest Stage

Performing at a FIFA World Cup opening ceremony is something many established artists only dream about. The 2026 tournament itself is historic — hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and featuring some of the world’s biggest musical acts.

The U.S. opening ceremony included performances from artists like LISA, Anitta, Future, Tyla, and Rema. Yet among all those international stars, Tius Luka still managed to leave a lasting impression.

For a 10-year-old child, sharing a stage with Katy Perry in front of tens of thousands inside the stadium — and millions watching worldwide — is an extraordinary achievement.

The Beginning of a Bigger Journey?

Very little official information about Tius Luka’s personal life has been publicly released so far. That mystery has only increased public interest in him. Fans are now eager to know whether he will continue singing professionally, release music of his own, or appear in future collaborations with Katy Perry.

What is already clear, however, is that the World Cup performance changed his life overnight.

In football, the opening ceremony is usually remembered for fireworks, famous artists, and spectacular visuals. But in 2026, many people may remember it for something simpler and more human: a child with a powerful voice holding Katy Perry’s hand and singing fearlessly before the world.

And perhaps that is exactly why people are calling Tius Luka the “wonder boy” of the FIFA World Cup.

Tius Luka lives with his family in the city of Drammen, Norway. His father, Kent Sundberg, is a member of a pop band, while his mother, Malin Mello, is a content creator. Tius’s uncle is also involved with his father’s band, Donkeyboy.

As a result, Tius grew up in a musical environment from an early age. Creating songs, recording music, and performing at concerts have always been among the most familiar parts of life for Tius Luka.

The 16-Year-Old Yashtahi Ul Alam Nivir Inspiring a New Generation

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At just 16 years old, Bangladeshi student Yashtahi Ul Alam Nivir is proving that age is no barrier to innovation. With two international gold medals earned through research and invention competitions in Indonesia, he has emerged as one of the country’s promising young innovators, inspiring countless students to dream bigger and think beyond the classroom.

A Young Mind with Big Dreams

In an era driven by science, technology, and innovation, young people are increasingly shaping the future with creative ideas and groundbreaking research. Among them is Yashtahi Ul Alam Nivir, a Grade 10 student at Adamjee Cantonment Public School in Dhaka.

From an early age, Nivir developed a strong fascination with science, technology, research, and innovation. Rather than limiting his learning to textbooks, he chose to explore real-world problems, experiment with new ideas, and continuously challenge himself through research-based projects.

His curiosity, dedication, and willingness to learn have become the foundation of an inspiring journey that is now attracting international attention.

Turning Curiosity into Global Recognition

Every successful innovator starts with a question, and Nivir’s journey is no exception.

Through years of learning, experimenting, and refining his ideas, he developed projects that combined creativity with practical research. His efforts eventually earned him the opportunity to compete on an international stage alongside some of the brightest young innovators from around the world.

Participating in the Innovation World Cup 2026 and the International Invention & Innovation Competition 2026 in Jakarta, Indonesia, Nivir showcased his research-driven ideas before an international panel of judges.

Competing against 458 innovators, researchers, and students from 16 countries, he impressed the judges with his originality, scientific thinking, and innovative approach.

His reward was extraordinary—International Gold Medals in both competitions, a remarkable achievement for a student still in secondary school.

More Than Medals

Winning two international gold medals is certainly an outstanding accomplishment, but the significance of Nivir’s success extends far beyond awards.

His achievements demonstrate that Bangladeshi students possess the creativity, intelligence, and determination needed to compete confidently on the global stage. They also highlight the growing potential of Bangladesh’s young generation to contribute meaningfully to scientific research, technological advancement, and innovation.

At a time when countries around the world are investing heavily in research and emerging technologies, stories like Nivir’s show that talent can flourish anywhere when supported by curiosity and perseverance.

Inspiring Future Scientists and Innovators

Nivir’s success has been warmly celebrated by teachers, classmates, parents, educators, and members of Bangladesh’s scientific community.

Many believe his journey will encourage more young people to pursue science, engineering, research, and innovation—not merely as academic subjects, but as powerful tools for solving real-world challenges.

His story reminds students that international recognition is not reserved only for adults or experienced researchers. With passion, consistent learning, and hard work, even a teenager can stand among the world’s best.

A Symbol of Bangladesh’s Emerging Talent

Bangladesh has produced many talented young minds who continue to make their mark in international competitions. Nivir now joins that growing list of young achievers whose accomplishments reflect the country’s expanding potential in science and innovation.

His journey represents more than personal success. It symbolizes the confidence, creativity, and resilience of an emerging generation ready to contribute to the world’s future.

As technology continues to reshape every aspect of modern life, young innovators like Yashtahi Ul Alam Nivir remind us that the next breakthrough could come from any classroom—and that great ideas often begin with the simple courage to ask, explore, and never stop learning.

Young Innovators Turn Everyday Problems Into Big Ideas at Invention Convention Arizona

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For many children, a lonely cat might seem like a small problem. For fifth grader Margaret Brown, it became the inspiration for an invention.

Margaret, a student at Ward Traditional Academy in Tempe, teamed up with classmates to create Cat Company Cat Toys — interactive toys designed to keep cats entertained while their owners are away from home.

“I thought it was a really good idea because one time we came back from camping and our cats had somehow turned on the water,” Margaret explained. “That showed us they can get into trouble when they’re left alone.”

Her invention was one of hundreds showcased at the 2026 Invention Convention Arizona, held Saturday at Arizona State University’s Tempe campus. More than 263 young inventors participated in the statewide competition, presenting creative solutions to real-world problems ranging from pet care and medicine safety to household messes.

This year, over 5,700 K–12 students from across Arizona took part in the program, which is supported by the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU. After competing in five regional events, top students advanced to the state competition, with winners earning the chance to compete at the national convention in June.

At its core, Invention Convention is designed to teach students the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and innovation. Participants identify a problem, brainstorm solutions, research existing ideas, build prototypes, test them, revise their designs, and ultimately market their inventions.

For Margaret, testing her invention was simple — her two cats eagerly volunteered.

“The moment we put the toys down, the cats immediately started playing with them,” she said with a laugh. “We actually had to move them out of the room so they wouldn’t destroy the toys before the competition.”

The program uses a free curriculum developed by The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Students can participate during school hours, through after-school clubs, youth organizations like Scouting, or independently with support from parents.

According to Jeanine Ryan-Frandsen, program manager for youth entrepreneurship at the Edson Institute, the goal is to give students hands-on experience with innovation while introducing them to ASU’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“It mirrors the kind of experience students later have in college pitch competitions and startup programs,” she said. “We want them to understand that an idea can evolve into something bigger — maybe even a real business.”

She emphasized that the process itself matters just as much as the final product.

“This is all about critical thinking and iteration,” Ryan-Frandsen explained. “Students test ideas, discover what doesn’t work, redesign their prototypes, and improve them again and again. That’s the essence of STEM design thinking.”

As students grow older, the projects become increasingly sophisticated, often involving market analysis, patent research, and consultations with professionals.

Animals, in particular, proved to be a major source of inspiration for many participants.

Seventh grader Matt Pulido from Madison Meadows Middle School in Phoenix won his division with the Animal Waste Picker Upper, a multi-purpose cleaning device designed to safely remove pet waste.

“I noticed there were a lot of stray animals in my neighborhood, and they often left messes in our yard,” he said.

While researching the issue, Matt learned that handling pet waste with plastic bags could expose people to harmful bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. His invention combines several tools into one system, including a scooper, scrubber, alcohol dispenser, and cleaning solution.

“It’s basically a bunch of mini inventions combined into one,” he explained proudly.

Another pet-inspired innovation came from fifth grader Cecily Hart of Broadmor Elementary School in Tempe, who created Pet Perfection, a rolling support bed for animals with mobility problems.

“It’s kind of like a wheelchair for pets,” Cecily said. “You can push it like a stroller, and it has silk side cushions because silk helps animals with sores and aches.”

For younger students, research often begins at home.

Second grader Caden Maxfield and his classmates at Fuller Elementary School kept losing toys underneath their refrigerator, inspiring them to invent the Fridge Bumper — a magnetic barrier that blocks the gap beneath the appliance.

When the students asked their families to pull out their refrigerators to investigate, they discovered far more than missing toys.

“There was dust, mold, pet fur, cereal spills, sticky juice — and even a hanger,” Caden said.

For older participants, however, the research process becomes far more advanced.

High school students Vyshal Sreenivas and Iraj Shroff developed a Smart Medicine Dispensing System after witnessing the dangers of medication misuse firsthand. One of their friends nearly overdosed on opioid medication, while a family member struggled to remember taking daily pills.

The two students — friends since childhood — consulted lawyers and a pain management specialist while developing their invention. Their device is a locked medicine dispenser that alerts users when it is time to take medication.

Sreenivas estimated that the product could be sold for around $50 with a monthly app subscription fee of $5, making it significantly cheaper than many existing systems on the market.

“Most current devices cost over a thousand dollars and are very bulky,” he said. “Our product not only helps prevent medication non-adherence, but could also reduce the billions spent on hospitalizations related to missed medication.”

A major component of the competition is feedback from judges, many of whom are university students and professionals.

One of Saturday’s judges, ASU engineering junior Charlotte Moenich, said she was amazed by the creativity and technical skill displayed by the participants.

“Some of these prototypes are honestly out of this world,” she said. “The creativity is flowing through everything they build.”

For her, the competition offers a glimpse into the future.

“It’s inspiring to see what this new generation wants to improve in the world,” she added. “They’re already thinking like real innovators.”

Four Seconds Before Time Ran Out: How a Bangladeshi Rover Team Reached the World’s Top Three

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For decades, humanity has dreamed of one day building a civilization on Mars. Across the world, scientists and engineers are working to turn that dream into reality. To inspire the next generation of innovators, the Mars Society in the United States organizes the University Rover Challenge (URC) every year — one of the world’s most prestigious robotics competitions.

This year, among teams from some of the world’s leading universities, a group of students from Bangladesh stunned everyone.

Competing at the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) in Hanksville, Utah, the United International University (UIU) Mars Rover Team secured third place globally at the 2026 URC finals. The competition, held from May 27 to May 30, featured 38 teams from 15 countries.

For the Bangladeshi students, however, the achievement meant much more than a trophy.

It was the culmination of years of persistence, countless sleepless nights, and a dream that once seemed impossibly distant.

The team’s journey began modestly in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their workspace was a tiny room on campus furnished with only a few chairs and tables. Shops were closed, equipment was difficult to find, and the team lacked sophisticated laboratories, expensive machinery, and major funding.

What they did have was ambition.

Slowly, step by step, the project evolved. The university administration began supporting the students, and the results improved every year. In their first appearance at URC in 2022, the UIU team finished 13th in the world. They climbed to ninth place in 2023, fifth in 2024, sixth in 2025, and finally third this year.

Back in 2022, when the students first arrived at the Mars Desert Research Station, they were mesmerized by the rovers built by universities like Michigan and Monash. The machines looked so advanced that they seemed ready to be deployed directly to Mars.

The Bangladeshi students approached those teams with curiosity, asking endless questions about simulation systems, mechanical design, and software architecture.

Quietly, they made a promise to themselves: one day, they would build a rover capable of competing at the same level.

This year, the roles had reversed.

After the award ceremony, members of the University of Michigan team approached the UIU students during a barbecue gathering. This time, it was the Americans asking questions.

“How did you do the simulation?”
“How did you design the wheels?”
“We tried something similar, but it didn’t work.”

Some even took photographs of UIU’s rover system for reference.

For the Bangladeshi team, it was a surreal moment.

This year’s rover was named Orion, a Greek word meaning “new dawn” or “new beginning.” The name reflected a bold decision made by the team before the competition.

Although their previous rover system had brought considerable success, the students realized they needed something faster, smarter, and more mission-oriented to compete at the highest level. So they made a risky choice: they completely abandoned their existing software and hardware architecture and rebuilt everything from scratch.

“Our old system was good,” said team leader Saif Al Sad. “But if we truly wanted to move forward, we needed the courage to leave our comfort zone. Rebuilding everything was risky, but we believed that transformation required bold decisions.”

That courage would soon be tested in dramatic fashion.

The most critical challenge arrived moments before the autonomous navigation mission — one of the competition’s toughest stages. The rover must independently navigate the desert terrain, avoid obstacles, identify targets, and make decisions entirely on its own without human control.

Just before the mission began, the UIU team discovered that their IMU (Internal Measurement Unit), the sensor responsible for determining the rover’s position and orientation, had stopped functioning. The rough 70-mile journey from the hotel to the field had likely damaged the device.

Panic spread instantly.

The students had only 40 minutes before the mission deadline. Replacing the IMU and reprogramming the system consumed 15 precious minutes, leaving them just 25 minutes to complete everything.

Then Orion began its mission.

The rover moved through the harsh desert terrain, avoiding obstacles and identifying targets one after another. Team members watched anxiously as the clock continued counting down.

With only four seconds remaining before time expired, Orion successfully identified the final target.

The audience erupted in surprise. Even the judges were astonished by how efficiently the rover had completed the mission under such pressure.

Out of seven targets, Orion successfully reached six and earned the highest score of 84 points in the autonomous category, winning the “Best Autonomous System” award.

“When the results were announced, we all jumped with excitement,” recalled senior lead Md. Mushfiqur Rahman. “Years of sacrifice, hard work, and waiting suddenly felt worthwhile in that one moment.”

The UIU Mars Rover Team consisted of 32 members this year. Alongside Saif Al Sad and Mushfiqur Rahman, the leadership team included co-team lead Sheikh Sakib Hossain. The students were guided by mentors and faculty members including Professor Hasan Sarwar, Professor Suman Ahmed, and lecturer Md. Abid Hossain.

UIU was not alone in representing Bangladesh. Three other Bangladeshi universities also reached the main competition stage this year: BRAC University’s “BRACU Mongoltori,” Military Institute of Science and Technology’s “MIST Mongolbarta,” and Aviation and Aerospace University of Bangladesh’s “Rover 71.”

Yet among all Asian teams, only UIU managed to secure a place in the global top three.

Still, the students are not fully satisfied.

Behind their success are nights spent inside laboratories during exam periods, festivals sacrificed for debugging sessions, and endless cycles of failure and improvement. For them, third place is not the destination — only another milestone.

“We gave our best,” said team mentor Abid Hossain. “But we do not want to stop here. Our goal is simple: we want to become world champions.”

From a tiny campus room during lockdown to the deserts of Utah, the journey of the UIU Mars Rover Team stands as a powerful reminder that innovation is not defined by resources alone.

Sometimes, all it takes is a dream bold enough to survive failure — and a team determined enough to chase it to another planet.

From Struggle to Scholarship: The Inspiring Journey of Abu Zayed Masum

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Abu Zayed Masum did not come from a prestigious university with a globally recognized alumni network or state-of-the-art research facilities. His journey began at Gono University, far from the spotlight of elite academia.

Yet today, he holds fully funded PhD offers in Chemistry from multiple renowned universities in the United States.

Behind this remarkable achievement lies a story of hardship, persistence, and an almost stubborn refusal to give up.

Masum’s struggles began even before he completed higher secondary school. His father suffered a stroke that left him partially paralyzed, abruptly changing the family’s future. As the only son, the responsibility of supporting the entire household fell on his shoulders at a young age.

At one point, financial pressure became so overwhelming that he seriously considered dropping out of education altogether to work in a garment factory, where he could at least earn a guaranteed monthly salary of 12,000 taka.

But somewhere deep inside, the dream of higher education refused to die.

To continue his studies while supporting his family, Masum took on private tutoring jobs from morning until late at night.

“I used to teach batches and private students from morning until 11 PM,” he recalled. “People insulted me constantly and said many discouraging things. But I knew I was enduring all of it for one dream. My greatest strength was this: every time I failed, I would stand up again.”

That resilience slowly transformed his life.

At Gono University, Masum built his academic foundation in chemistry and graduated with a CGPA of 3.24. Later, Jahangirnagar University introduced him to the world of research and helped him develop a passion for scientific inquiry.

His journey took a decisive turn when he joined Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), where he experienced an international-standard research environment for the first time.

“At BUET, I found an environment where nobody looked down on anyone,” Masum said. “The laboratories felt like home. Someone from the next room was going to Florida, another to Texas. The moment I entered BUET, studying in the United States no longer felt impossible. It started to feel normal.”

But getting there required extraordinary patience and determination.

Toward the end of 2025, Masum sent emails to more than 500 professors in the United States. It was not a matter of sending generic messages randomly. He carefully studied each professor’s research, learned about their work, and tailored every email individually.

It became a test of endurance.

“I started drafting my emails as early as April,” he explained. “From October to December, I sent them according to a schedule. Out of 500 emails, only four received positive replies. But I knew that even a single positive response could make the entire journey successful.”

That belief eventually paid off.

If all goes according to plan, Masum will soon begin his PhD journey at the University of Massachusetts.

For younger students struggling with self-doubt or limitations, he carries a simple but powerful message.

“It does not matter where you come from,” he said. “What matters is how relentlessly determined you are. Professors in the United States may not even know the name of your university. So you have to pull yourself up on your own. In the end, this battle is really a battle with yourself.”

Masum’s story is not merely about academic success. It is about refusing to surrender to circumstances, about carrying responsibilities without abandoning ambition, and about proving that determination can bridge even the widest distances.

From tutoring students late into the night to earning fully funded PhD opportunities in America, Abu Zayed Masum has shown that dreams are not reserved for the privileged — they belong to those willing to fight for them.

From Memes to the Global Stage: How Four Bangladeshi Students Became World Business Case Champions

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Three hours. No phones, no internet, no laptops, and no outside help.

Inside a closed room, a team of university students is handed a 20-page business case based on a real-world corporate crisis. Their task: analyze the situation, identify the core problems, develop a realistic strategy, and present their solution before an international panel of judges.

This is the intense reality of the HSBC/HKU Asia Pacific Business Case Competition — widely regarded as one of the world’s largest and most prestigious undergraduate business competitions.

And this year, a team from Bangladesh stood proudly among the best.

Competing against top universities from 20 countries, four students from Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) secured third place in the global round of the competition held in Hong Kong. Alongside the international recognition, they also won a prize of 2,000 US dollars.

Their team name? Team Six Seven.

At first glance, the name sounds unserious — and that is exactly the point.

The phrase “Six Seven,” two random numbers that recently became a viral meme among Generation Alpha on social media, was chosen purely for fun. “Most business cases are very serious and intense,” said team member Sakhawat Selim. “We wanted something that would make things a little lighter.”

Behind the playful name, however, stood months of discipline, preparation, and extraordinary teamwork.

The team consists of Mohammad Ridwan Sakib, Mohammad Faiyad, Sakhawat Selim, and Navid Abrar — all fourth-year students from BUP’s Department of Business Administration. Their mentor from HSBC was Israt Jahan.

The four friends first met during their freshman year at university. Over time, they became close friends and regular teammates in different competitions. Earlier this year, another team involving Faiyad and Sakhawat also became national champions in the CFA Institute Research Challenge.

For Ridwan, forming the team felt natural.

“We are extremely close friends,” he said. “We thought participating together would be fun. In many ways, we were lucky that BUP brought us together.”

Their chemistry became one of their biggest strengths.

Each member developed a specialized role during competitions. Navid focused on analyzing the business situation and identifying the key problems. Ridwan worked on strategic planning. Sakhawat handled the financial aspects, while Faiyad evaluated implementation feasibility.

Still, they insist the process was always collaborative.

“Our team is structured in a way that if even one person is removed, we lose half of our capability,” Ridwan explained. “You can call it teamwork or friendship — either way, that bond is our biggest strength.”

Their journey to Hong Kong began on June 1 under HSBC’s sponsorship and supervision. During the four-day global competition, teams from around the world were divided into groups and faced multiple competitive rounds before the final stage, where only four teams remained. The University of Sydney from Australia eventually became the champion.

But Team Six Seven’s experience in Hong Kong was far from glamorous.

The students spent nearly every day preparing for rounds, leaving little opportunity to explore the city. To make matters more difficult, Navid suffered from severe food poisoning during the competition.

“After the first round, I became seriously sick,” Navid recalled. “Before one of the rounds, I was literally vomiting. I was scared to eat anything. I took medicine and kept working.”

Despite the illness, he believes his performance did not suffer — largely because of the support of his teammates.

Preparation for the competition itself was another battle.

To compete internationally, the team had to study global economics, geopolitics, corporate strategy, and market trends. They regularly followed publications such as Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, and The Economist.

However, accessing those resources came at a significant financial cost.

“Other universities had institutional subscriptions,” said Faiyad. “We often had to rely on free YouTube videos from Bloomberg Originals instead of getting daily updates through subscriptions.”

Beyond financial limitations, the team believes Bangladeshi universities also lack a stronger “case competition culture.”

Ridwan emphasized the need for dedicated “Case Clubs” in universities — organizations that train students in solving business cases and preparing structured solutions.

“When we became runners-up in the national round, we already understood the gap,” he said. “International universities have established case clubs where students are trained professionally. Our universities need that too.”

Despite those challenges, Team Six Seven managed to reach the global stage and compete among the world’s best.

Their story is more than just a competition result. It is a story of friendship, resilience, preparation, and the growing potential of Bangladeshi students in global business leadership.

From a meme-inspired team name to an international podium in Hong Kong, Team Six Seven proved that behind every joke can exist serious talent — and behind every limitation, extraordinary ambition.

From Smartphones to CERN: Five Bangladeshi College Students Win International Physics Competition

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Five Bangladeshi college students have achieved what many could only dream of. With limited resources, no advanced laboratories, and in some cases not even a personal computer, they carried out theoretical research in particle physics and emerged as winners in one of the world’s most prestigious international science competitions organized by CERN.

The team, named Polaris after the North Star, consists of Salman Alam, Abdul Rahim, and S M Tausif from Chowmuhani Government Saleh Ahmed College; Nazia Titim from Rangpur Collectorate School and College; and Nazifa Tasnim from Birshreshtha Noor Mohammad Public College in Dhaka. Guiding them throughout their journey was their mentor, Md. Nishad Ahmed, a student of Noakhali Science and Technology University.

Their remarkable success came through CERN’s global competition, Beamline for Schools, where high school and college students from around the world submit proposals for experiments related to particle physics. This year’s competition featured around 4,500 participants from 89 countries, with 712 project proposals submitted. Polaris stood out among them and secured a place among the winning teams.

What makes their achievement extraordinary is not just the award itself, but the story behind it.

The journey began when Salman Alam discovered the competition through YouTube. Excited by the opportunity, he searched online for teammates through a Facebook group related to the program. After failing to join any existing team, he decided to build one himself. Along with two friends from his college, he formed Polaris — a name inspired by the guiding North Star and connected symbolically to their research material, polysiloxane.

Soon, they approached their private tutor Nishad Ahmed for guidance. Despite being a university student himself, Nishad enthusiastically supported the team. Later, through the same Facebook group, Nazia Titim and Nazifa Tasnim joined the project.

For Titim, the experience was personally transformative. An introvert by nature, she described the collaborative journey as something deeply meaningful and special.

The team focused on improving scintillators — materials used in radiotherapy equipment that emit light under radiation exposure. Current radiotherapy systems largely depend on plastic scintillators based on polyvinyl toluene, which gradually degrade under high radiation and temperature. This increases maintenance costs and reduces efficiency over time.

To address this challenge, Polaris proposed a new scintillator material based on polysiloxane. Although the material does not yet exist in practical form, the students theoretically demonstrated its feasibility. If successfully developed, the innovation could significantly reduce costs in the radiotherapy industry and improve the durability of medical equipment.

Their research, however, was carried out under severe technological limitations.

Salman did not own a computer and completed much of his work using a basic smartphone. His parents initially believed he was simply wasting time on his phone rather than studying. Tausif faced similar struggles. Many complex calculations had to be done manually with pen and paper.

Even their mentor Nishad struggled with insufficient computing power. After installing software necessary for computational physics simulations, his laptop repeatedly crashed. At one point, during his university examinations, the device remained unusable for over two weeks.

Eventually, the Department of Computer Science and Telecommunication Engineering at Noakhali Science and Technology University stepped in to support the team by granting them access to laboratory facilities.

Now, the young researchers are preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In August, they are expected to travel to Germany’s ELSA Research Center, where they will spend 14 days testing their proposal using advanced particle beamline technology. The organizers will bear all official expenses.

Yet uncertainty remains.

Four members of Polaris are currently preparing for their higher secondary examinations. While the written exams are expected to finish before the Germany trip, the dates for practical examinations remain undecided. The students have already contacted their colleges requesting an earlier schedule, but so far they have received little assurance.

There is another dream they hope to fulfill — visiting CERN’s main laboratory in Geneva, Switzerland. However, the additional travel costs are beyond the financial capacity of most team members. Australian-based Bangladeshi PhD researcher Salauddin Pathan has been trying to help them secure sponsorship, but no support has yet been confirmed.

Still, despite financial hardship, limited technology, and academic pressure, the story of Polaris shines as a powerful example of determination, curiosity, and the limitless potential of young minds.

From handwritten calculations and smartphone screens to international recognition at CERN, these five Bangladeshi students have already proven that talent can rise from anywhere — even from the most modest circumstances.

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