Xlll Bangladesh Astro Olympiad 2018

A huge number of students in this country are highly interested to learn about astronomy in their spare time.  The gathering of 350 curious young minds at the National Museum of Science and Technology in Agargaon on May 4, 2018, for the XIII Bangladesh Astro Olympiad points to the fact that astronomy should be introduced into our regular curriculum. Bangladesh Astronomical Association teamed up with National Museum of Science and Technology and The Daily Samakal to inspire school and college students to dive more into the world of astronomy through this event. Biggyan Andolon Moncho, the Cultural Affairs Department of the Russian Embassy, Ekattor TV and The Daily Star have also supported the initiative.

The participants were divided into junior and senior groups for the Olympiad. Afterwards, they took part in an enlightening question and answer session.

However, many students expressed that the field of astronomy still remains quite underappreciated in Bangladesh. "I believe that we have a bright future in astronomy, and a well-organised plan by the correct authority in this field can open up numerous opportunities," says Mashurul Amin, President of Bangladesh Astronomical Association.

The top five winners from the senior group received a 100 percent scholarship from the Russian Embassy to study astronomy in the Russian University.

To add, Bangladesh Astronomical Association will organise a training camp for selected 27 students. The best nine students amongst them will receive a government fund to study at Russian University. The event ended with a prize giving ceremony.