To ignite interest in space science among children and teenagers, the American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) hosted the “Kids Space Camp 2025” on its campus in Dhaka. The day-long event saw the participation of 180 young enthusiasts from 85 schools across the country. The camp, held on Saturday, featured training in space technology, robotics, rocket science, and astronaut preparation.
Under the guidance of experienced mission controllers, participants engaged in hands-on activities such as building and launching model rockets, designing and programming space robots, constructing telescopes for astronomical observation, and developing colony designs for Mars and the Moon. Additionally, they experienced astronaut training through VR-based simulations.
A group of young participants, aged between 6 and 14, also published a research paper as part of the camp’s initiatives. This nine-member “Mars Colony Builders” team is now set to submit their 100-page research paper to an international journal.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the initiative, Dr. Hasanul A. Hasan, founder member and vice chairman of AIUB, said, “I am delighted to see such initiatives taking place in our country. The activities carried out in today’s workshop will further enhance the creativity and curiosity of our young participants. I firmly believe that such programs will help nurture the future scientists, engineers, and space researchers of Bangladesh.”
James Gardiner, economic officer at the U.S. Department of State, attended the event as a special guest. He praised the initiative, stating, “The Space Innovation Camp has created a platform where children can begin dreaming about space science from an early age. Today’s children are the future scientists, researchers, and astronauts. It is truly commendable that they have been given the opportunity to learn, explore, and bring their imaginations to life.”
Ariful Hasan Apu, president of Space Innovation Camp, described the event as South Asia’s largest kids’ space camp. He emphasized the commitment to expanding similar initiatives in the future, saying, “Our goal is to introduce more innovative programs for children so they can learn, explore, and turn their dreams into reality.”
The event was attended by AIUB trustee Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, vice-chancellor Professor Dr. Saiful Islam, and pro-vice-chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Abdur Rahman, among others.
The knowledge partner for the event was Creative Junior, while E-Soft and Robust Research & Development served as the technology partners. The camp was also supported by Scientifly, Kids Coding Club, and Team Atlas.
