Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB), in Dhaka, hosted a Microbiology Olympiad on January 24, aiming to promote science education and inspire future microbiologists.
The day-long program, jointly organized by NDUB’s Department of Microbiology and the International Society of Bangladesh–Affiliated Microbiologists (ISBM), brought together around 500 participants, including students, teachers, adjudicators, and researchers from 42 colleges and 11 universities across the country.
The event opened with a welcome address by Dr. Md. Shahidul Kabir, professor and chairman of the Department of Microbiology. Short videos introducing the department and ISBM highlighted their academic and research activities.
Key speakers included Prof. Dr. Fr. Patrick Daniel Gaffney, CSC, Vice Chancellor of NDUB; Dr. Mohammed Ziaur Rahman, senior scientist and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Manjurul Karim, vice president of ISBM.
In his address, Fr. Gaffney described microbiology as a relatively young yet highly dynamic scientific discipline. Reflecting on the Covid-19 pandemic, he said it had underscored the field’s vital role in human health and well-being. “In the 21st century, microbiology has become a frontier area with vast possibilities for discovery,” he said, noting the growing career opportunities for students.
Sharing his personal academic journey, Dr. Ziaur Rahman spoke of rising from an ordinary student to a recognized scientist through dedication and perseverance. He encouraged students to set clear goals, continuously develop their skills, and remain committed to their work.
Dr. Manjurul Karim said the importance of microbiology needed little explanation in the post-pandemic world, emphasizing that protecting future generations and ensuring healthy lives would require a strong pool of trained microbiologists.
Highlighting the broad scope of the discipline, Dr. Shahidul Kabir said microbiology plays a critical role in public health, food safety, environmental protection, and biotechnology. He added that the Olympiad was designed to motivate students, enhance their competencies, and help meet the country’s growing demand for skilled professionals.
Participants later took part in quizzes and three-minute thesis (3MT)-style presentations, showcasing their ideas before panels of adjudicators. In the afternoon, students joined guided campus and laboratory tours, followed by a cultural program presented by NDUB students.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony led by Vice Chancellor Fr. Gaffney, Registrar Dr. Bro. Subal Lawrence Rozario, CSC, and ISBM Vice President Md. Nawabur Rahman.
Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB) is a Catholic institution of higher learning run by the Congregation of Holy Cross. Faithful to its motto, “Education for Life,” the university is committed to academic excellence, moral formation, and service to society. It places strong emphasis on values, discipline, and social responsibility, forming graduates who contribute positively to the nation and to the wider world.
