DP1 students visit the Atomic Energy Research Establishment

Diploma Programme (DP) 1 students, from Aga Khan Academy Dhaka, participated in an educational field trip to the Atomic Energy Research Establishment (AERE) in Savar Upazila, Bangladesh to delve deeper into nuclear science and technology. 

The trip began with a warm welcome from the AERE staff, who introduced students to various departments and facilities. The students also enjoyed a captivating video presentation on the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant which gave them a glimpse into the cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions driving Bangladesh's nuclear energy sector. This immersive experience set the stage for an enriching exploration of the research and development activities conducted at AERE. 

Additionally, the AERE staff gave the DP1s a tour of the Centre for Research Reactor (CRR), where our students learnt about fusion and fission reactors. With expert guidance, our students explored the inner workings of these reactors, gaining insight into the fundamental principles of how energy is generated. This experience ignited curiosity and sparked meaningful discussions among our students and the CRR scientists. 

Students’ exploration of the CRR led them to the Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology on the same campus, where they witnessed how radioisotopes are created and utilised for medical purposes. Through interactive demonstrations and informative presentations, the students learnt about the pivotal role of nuclear technology in cancer detection and treatment. 

“The complex structure of the machines is really impressive,” said Ahmad Hossain Alvi, one of the students. “This trip to the state-of-the-art powerhouse is encouraging me to delve deeper into the realm of nuclear science.”   

An exciting highlight was the visit to the Tandem Accelerator Facilities at the Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology. Under the guidance of Director General Dr Md Nurul Islam, students were in awe of the machinery involving advanced technology that propels atomic research into new frontiers. 

“Nuclear power has limitless possibilities and the power to solve many dire problems we have now,” Dr Md Nuru Islam said. “We need to learn the true potential of this power source so that it can be used in peaceful purposes.”     

As a fitting conclusion, the trip ended with Dr Islam's short but impactful speech about the peaceful use of atomic energy. Dr Islam shared his expertise and insights, leaving our students with a profound understanding of the potential for nuclear science to contribute to a more sustainable and peaceful future. He also planted a seed of inspiration by informing the students that this visit could be the catalyst for their future careers in this field.