Notre Dame College hosts landmark 8th National Earth and Space Summit

Notre Dame College became the focal point for budding astronomers and ecologists as the Notre Dame Eco and Space Club convened the 8th National Earth and Space Summit (NESS) recently.

Drawing nearly 2,000 participants and an equal number of visitors from over 60 institutions nationwide, the summit underscored the rising interest in space science and environmental studies among the youth.

Backed by title sponsor Western Engineering and gold sponsor Bata, the event transformed the college grounds into a vibrant hub of scientific discourse. Strategic partnerships with Savoy Ice Cream and Dot Internet elevated the experience, offering complimentary refreshments and seamless connectivity across the campus.

The summit's agenda featured a range of intellectually stimulating activities - from rigorous quizzes and thought-provoking debates to competitive olympiads - each designed to kindle scientific curiosity across educational tiers. Participation spanned primary to higher secondary levels, reflecting a widespread appetite for knowledge in the STEM fields. A standout session came from astrophotographer Zubuyer Kaolin, whose 'Astro Talk' captivated an audience of nearly 1,000. Kaolin's discourse on astrophotography, paired with his visually arresting works displayed in the Photosphere Exhibition, granted attendees a rare glimpse into the cosmos' grandeur.

Technological innovation took centre stage as students from the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) unveiled Formula IUT, the campus's inaugural formula student car. Meanwhile, the MICB Scientific Society, serving as the telescope partner, introduced visitors to solar observation through a specialised telescope, enabling a closer look at the sun's dynamic surface.

Md Nazmul Hassan, moderator of the Eco and Space Club, remarked, "The summit's resounding success mirrors our ambition to cultivate intellectual curiosity and scientific discourse among the nation's youth." Principal Dr Fr Hemanto Pius Rozario lauded the initiative, adding, "Such events are pivotal in preparing the next generation to address the pressing scientific challenges of tomorrow."

Beyond its academic resonance, the 8th NESS serves as a strategic platform propelling future talent towards science and technology careers. By galvanising young minds, the summit contributes to national ambitions in technological innovation and sustainable development. As curtains close on this year's summit, its impact is poised to reverberate through the nation's scientific landscape for years to come.

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