Aiming to spark school students’ Interest and passion for science, research and innovation, the third edition of ‘bKash-Bigganchinta Biggan Utshob’ began at Mirpur Cantonment Public School and College in the capital.

Students from over 120 schools from Dhaka region showcased innovative projects, took part in quizzes, and joined science discussions in this year’s festival, organised by bKash and the monthly science magazine Bigganchinta, said a press release issued on Sunday.

Robot ‘WALL.E’ made the festival announcement.

This year's science festival will travel through regional phases in Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barisal, Rangpur and Sylhet divisions, followed by finale in Dhaka.

The festival aims to instill a scientific mindset in students from young age, thereby equipping them to compete in a rapidly evolving technological world. In the last two editions, students from class six to ten displayed over 600 captivating science projects from more than 850 institutes across the country, engaging more than 20,000 participants.

Besides, over 4,300 students participated in the quiz competition.

These events also drew spontaneous attendance from a large number of parents, teachers and visitors.

The Biggan Utshob was inaugurated by computer scientist and academician Dr. Mohammad Kaykobad, Chief External and Corporate Affairs Officer of bKash Major General Sheikh Md. Monirul Islam (retd),  Bigganchinta editor Abdul Quayum, Mirpur Cantonment Public School and College Principal Lt Col Farzana Shakil, fiction writer Anisul Hoque, Professor of Physical Science department of Independent University Arshad Momen, writer and cartoonist Ahsan Habib, former Bangladesh National Cricket team captain Habibul Bashar, Science Speaker Asif,  EVP and Head of Regulatory and Corporate Affairs Humayun Kabir and Vice President Sayma Ahsan from bKash; Bigganchinta Executive Editor Abul Bashar and many others.

Student teams from 120 schools showcased around 150 innovative projects at the Dhaka regional round science festival.

Students also participated in quiz competitions.

The top 17 science projects were recognized while 17 winners of quiz competitions in lower secondary and 15 in secondary categories were awarded as well.

Rayin Al Raad, class ten student of St. Joseph Higher Secondary School won the award for his project on making an app on environment.

The winning teams from divisional competition will proceed to the national-level final in Dhaka where national champions will be awarded.

The event featured several engaging attractions, including interaction at the science stalls, a robotics exhibition, science magic shows, speeches from renowned authors, mathematicians and science speakers, followed by a question-and-answer session with students.

The day concluded with a musical concert and the award ceremony.