Bangladesh’s Budding Minds Shine at First Math and Science Olympiad
For the first time in the country, the Bangladesh Math and Science Olympiad (BDMSO) for primary-level students was held. The national round took place on Friday, August 22, at St. Joseph Higher Secondary School in the capital, with the participation of more than 200 students.
The festival-like event saw students and parents arrive at the venue early in the morning. After collecting T-shirts and ID cards, the mathematics examination commenced, with over 150 students participating. Following this, the science examination was held, where more than 100 students took part. After both exams, students were treated to a robotics and drone exhibition, demonstrating how an Alpha Robot and a drone operate, aimed at sparking interest in technology. A magic show was also arranged for their entertainment.
Distinguished guests at the event included Brother Leo James Pereira, Principal of St. Joseph Higher Secondary School; Sarwat Reza, Country Lead for Cambridge University Press and Assessment in Bangladesh; Jahangir Masud, Principal of Legend International School; Professor Dr. Farzana Alam of European University of Bangladesh (EUB); and Jannatul Ferdous Sigma, Regional Development Manager of Pearson Bangladesh.
Extending his best wishes to all participants, Brother Leo James Pereira said: “This experience will be invaluable on the path to fulfilling your dreams. With dedication and hard work, you will make not only yourselves but also the country proud.”
Praising the initiative, Sarwat Reza remarked: “Competitions like these play a vital role in enhancing knowledge and skill development among students. They prepare them better to face the challenges of the future.”
The event concluded with the announcement of results and prize distribution by the guests. A total of 52 winners were declared at the national round—26 in mathematics and 26 in science. In mathematics, four students won gold, nine silver, and thirteen bronze medals. In science, five won gold, nine silver, and twelve bronze medals.
Mohammad Nabi Hossain, a fifth-grade student from St. Joseph Higher Secondary School, earned the Champion’s Trophy in mathematics for securing the highest score, while Syed Ayan Isa, a fourth-grade student from Lighthouse International School, won the Champion’s Trophy in science.
The national winners will participate in a National Camp and Team Selection Test in Dhaka. From this, six students in mathematics and six in science will be selected to represent Bangladesh at the 22nd International Mathematics and Science Olympiad (IMSO), scheduled to be held from October 4–10 in Kedah, Malaysia, with around 300 students from 23 countries competing.
The Olympiad was jointly organized by Bangladesh Open Source Network (BdOSN) and the Society for the Popularization of Science in Bangladesh (SPSB). Supporting partners included MathLab, TEMS Academy, and Reflective Teen. The winners will now have the opportunity to represent Bangladesh on the international stage.
