Diplomatic Desk:
To mark the 69th anniversary of the launch of Sputnik-1—the world’s first artificial satellite—’Sputnik Fest 2026′ was organized at the Russian House in Dhaka in collaboration with the Bangladesh Astronomical Association. On October 4, 1957, the then-Soviet Union launched Sputnik-1 into space, ushering in a new era in the history of human space exploration.
Students from various schools and colleges in Dhaka, as well as from educational institutions outside the capital, participated in the event. Held in the evening and attended by teachers, astronomy enthusiasts, and other guests, the event provided a unique opportunity to foster interest and knowledge among the youth regarding space science, astronomy, and space exploration.
The program featured a photo exhibition on Sputnik-1 and modern space exploration, a science quiz competition for school and college students, a seminar on Russia’s space activities, a certificate-awarding ceremony, and a sky observation camp equipped with telescopes for stargazing.
Prominent figures from the country’s education and astronomy sectors participated in the seminar. Speakers included Dr. Mohammad Zillur Rahman, Professor of Physics at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET); Dr. Rehena Nasrin, Professor of Mathematics; Mashhurul Amin, Chairman of the Bangladesh Astronomical Association; and Alexandra Khlevnoy, Director of the Russian House in Dhaka.
Through brief presentations on physics and astronomy, the speakers introduced students to various key concepts and encouraged them to develop a deeper interest in science and space exploration. Alexandra Khlevnoy, Director of the Russian House in Dhaka, also informed young participants about opportunities for fully funded Russian government scholarships for higher education in Russia. She specifically highlighted the prospects for higher studies in fields such as aerospace engineering, physics, astronomy, and various advanced technology-based disciplines.
