ASI School of Life 2025 Sparks Scientific Curiosity Among Students
To foster a deep interest in biology and scientific inquiry among school and college students, the second edition of the unique science camp, “ASI School of Life 2025,” has been successfully organized. The camp aims to prepare young minds to explore the complex mysteries of life and ignite a passion for science through a two-phase program featuring both theoretical and hands-on learning experiences.
The first phase of the camp was held online from July 24 to July 27, where selected students joined sessions via Google Classroom and Zoom, interacting with renowned scientists and researchers. The online camp was inaugurated by Dr. Soumitra Chakraborty, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology at Bangladesh Medical University. Other notable speakers included Mishal Islam, Chief Robotics Coach of Bangladesh Robot Olympiad (BDRO); Dr. Sabrina Shamin Alam from McGill University, Canada; and Dr. Md. Mahbub Hasan and Professor Dr. Adnan Mannan from the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Chittagong.
Following the online sessions, selected students were invited to the second phase—an in-person, hands-on science camp held from July 30 to August 2 at the Dhanmondi office of Bangladesh Open Source Network (BdOSN). This segment provided students with practical lab experience and immersive exposure to the world of life sciences and artificial intelligence. Participants from across the country, including Cox’s Bazar, Nilphamari, Bogura, Rajshahi, Satkhira, Lakshmipur, and Chuadanga, engaged in activities designed to deepen their understanding of biological concepts and research.
The offline camp commenced with an inaugural ceremony attended by BdOSN President Mr. Munir Hasan and Dr. Zeba Islam Seraj, President of the Global Network of Bangladeshi Biotechnologists (GNOBB). Students were introduced to basic laboratory protocols and measurement techniques.
On the second day, participants visited various departments of the University of Dhaka, including Botany, Microbiology, Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology, and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. They were welcomed by Dr. Mihir Lal Saha, Head of the Botany Department, and had the opportunity to observe modern research labs and scientific instruments firsthand.
The third day featured a session on ancient genetics, exploring how DNA from ancient biological samples helps decode evolution, migration, and genetic diversity. Spanish researcher Julia Fuentes also joined the day’s activities and led a session on “Public Health in Disaster Situations.” Additionally, participants engaged in activities like building terrariums—miniature self-sustained ecosystems inside glass containers.
On the final day, students conducted hands-on experiments on seed germination, guided by Dr. Aparna Islam, Professor at BRAC University. The session illustrated how seeds transform into saplings. The day also included activities on life patterns and fractal designs. The camp concluded with a group visit to Dhaka’s Ramna Park, followed by a closing dinner at a local restaurant.
The ASI School of Life 2025 is a collaborative initiative of the Society for Popularization of Science in Bangladesh (SPSB), Global Network of Bangladeshi Biotechnologists (GNOBB), and the Maksudul Alam Science Lab (MASLAB).
Organizers said selected participants from the offline camp will be given opportunities to intern at renowned laboratories across the country, which will help them prepare for future careers in biological research.
