Aiming to promote science education and nurture future microbiologists, Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB) hosted the Microbiology Olympiad 2026 on Saturday (January 24, 2026) on its own campus.
The day-long program, jointly organized by NDUB’s Microbiology Department 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, to celebrate science, creativity and young talent.
The program began with a welcome speech by Dr. Md. Shahidul Kabir, Professor and Chairman of the Microbiology Department. Short videos on the department and ISBM were screened to introduce the institutions and their activities.
Key speeches were delivered by Prof. Dr. Fr. Patrick Daniel Gaffney, CSC, Vice Chancellor of NDUB, Dr. Mohammed Ziaur Rahman, Senior Scientist and Head of the One Health Laboratory Programme for Respiratory Infections at icddr,b, and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Manjurul Karim, Vice President of ISBM.
During his speech, Fr. Patrick said microbiology is a relatively new but highly dynamic scientific discipline. He noted that the Covid-19 pandemic had made people truly realize the strength and necessity of microbiology. He said, “In the 21st century, microbiology has become a frontier area with vast possibilities for discovery. It helps people understand nature and live healthier lives.” He also mentioned that students now had excellent career opportunities in this field.
Sharing his personal journey in microbiology, Dr. Ziaur explained how he had risen from an ordinary student to a recognized scientist through dedication to the subject. Addressing the students, he emphasized the importance of setting clear goals, developing skills, and continuing to work hard without stopping.
Dr. Manjurul said the importance of microbiology no longer needed explanation, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. He pointed out that protecting future generations and ensuring a healthy life would require skilled manpower in microbiology.
Speaking about the wide scope of microbiology at home and abroad, Dr. Shahidul Kabir said the subject was vital for public health, food safety, environmental protection and biotechnology. He added that the Microbiology Olympiad had been arranged to inspire students, build their skills and prepare them to meet the country’s growing demand for trained microbiologists.
Later, students moved to their designated rooms for quizzes and 3MT-style presentations, where they presented their ideas before the adjudicators.
In the afternoon, participants joined a campus and laboratory tour in small groups. After that, a cultural program by NDUB students added a lively and creative touch to the event.
The winners of the event were awarded by Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Fr. Patrick Daniel Gaffney, CSC, Registrar Dr. Bro. Subal Lawrence Rozario, CSC, Dr. Md. Shahidul Kabir, Professor and Chairman of the Microbiology Department and Md. Nawabur Rahman, Vice President of ISBM.
