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Ceramic Bangladesh Magazine

Spotlights

Materials Symposium: Pioneering the Future of Materials Science Through Innovation and Collaboration

With the aim of connecting academia and industry, the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) hosted the Innovation in Materials Research – Connecting Industry and Academia (IMR-CIA 2025) symposium on February 22, 2025. The one-day event, held at BUET’s Academic Council Auditorium, brought together leading scientists, engineers, and industry pioneers to explore advancements in materials science and their real-world applications.  Chaired by Dr. Fahmida Gulshan, Professor, Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, BUET and co-chaired by Dr. Muhammad Hasanuzzaman, Associate Professor, Department of Nanomaterials and Ceramic Engineering, BUET, the symposium was organized by a distinguished committee of Materials Research Centre, BUET, composed of experts in the field of materials science. The chief patron of the organization is Prof. Dr. A.B.M. Badruzzaman, Vice-Chancellor, BUET.    The symposium was presided over by Dr. Fahmida Gulshan. It commenced with a welcome speech by Dr. Muhammad Hasanuzzaman. Prof. Dr. A.B.M. Badruzzaman, gave his speech as the chief guest. A plenary speech was then delivered by Prof. Dr. A.S.M.A. Haseeb, Head, NCE, BUET, Bangladesh.   The event featured experts from both academia and industry, who shared insights on the latest breakthroughs in materials science, manufacturing innovations, and strategies to foster collaboration between research institutions and corporate enterprises. The symposium focused on four major themes, each representing a crucial area in modern materials research: Steel: With sustainability in focus, discussions delved into emerging high-strength steels for automotive and construction applications, innovations in steel recycling and green steel production, and advanced corrosion-resistant coatings. Ceramics, Glass, and Cement: Industry leaders highlighted advancements in energy-efficient manufacturing, AI-automated process optimizations, product diversification and waste utilization strategies for economic and environmental benefits. Semiconductors: With the global chip shortage still a concern, speakers discussed the challenges in semiconductor scaling, the role of advanced materials in next-generation electronics, and sustainable manufacturing practices. Additive Manufacturing: Experts showcased breakthroughs in 3D printing for industrial applications, material characterization, and AI-enhanced manufacturing processes, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize supply chains.  Renowned experts from leading organizations and academic institutions delivered keynote speeches on groundbreaking advancements in materials science and manufacturing. They were – from Intel Corporation. USA – Dr. Zakir Ahmed, Research Scientist, Intel Labs; Dr. Md Waliullah Khan Nomani, PTD Module and Integration Yield Engineer, PTD; Dr. Shaestagir Chowdhury, Principal Engineer; Dr. Syed Samsul Amin, Principal Engineer & Packaging Architect.  Other honorable speakers included Dr. Kafil M. Razeeb, Principal Scientist and Team Leader, Tyndall National Institute – Cork University, Ireland; Prof. Dr. Syed Ansar Md. Tofail, Head, Physics, University of Limerick, Ireland; Mr. Mohammad Zahirul Hoque, Director, Q.C. Metallurgical Laboratory, Inc, IOWA, USA; Dr. Ehtsham-Ul Haque, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Physics, University of Limerick, Ireland; Dr. Nazmul Alam, Principal Research Scientist (Retd.), CSIRO, Adjunct Professor, RMIT University, Australia; Dr. Md Zakaria Quadir, Associate Professor, School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering (CME), Curtin University, Australia; Dr. Qumrul Ahsan, Vice-Chancellor, University of Asia Pacific, Bangladesh; Dr. Sheikh Manjura Hoque, Head, Materials Science Division, Atomic Energy Commission, Bangladesh.    The symposium also hosted specialized panel discussions featuring leading academics and industry professionals in the steel, ceramics, semiconductor, additive manufacturing fields.    Steel Industry Panelists included Dr. Sazzad Ahmed, Associate Professor, MME, CUET, Bangladesh and Mr. Md. Saiful Islam, Deputy General Manager, Research and Development, GPH Ispat Limited, Bangladesh.  From Semiconductor Industry Panel, Dr. Mainul Hossian, Associate Professor, EEE, DU, Bangladesh and Dr. Kafil M. Razeeb, Principal Scientist and Team Leader, Tyndall National Institute-Cork University, Ireland gave their speech.  Additive Manufacturing Panelists included Dr. M. Tarik Arafat, Head, BME, BUET, Bangladesh, Dr. Md. Jalal Uddin, P. Eng., Director, BITAC, Bangladesh, Dr. Md Zakaria Quadir, Associate Professor, School of Civil and Mechanical Engineering (CME), Curtin University, Australia.  The Ceramics Industry Panelist was senior journalist Mr. Anwar Haq, Head of Brand, Communication & Corporate, Pa-Wang Ceramic Industry Ltd., Bangladesh.   And, the Entrepreneurship Panel was comprised of Engr. Md. Fahim Rahman, Head of Operations, METTALLIED, Bangladesh.   The symposium also served as a platform for young researchers, with a competitive poster competition drawing entries from students across multiple disciplines. The top ten posters received recognition awards, while the top three submissions were awarded BDT 25,000, BDT 15,000, and BDT 10,000, respectively.  This initiative provided an incredible opportunity for  young researchers to showcase their work and gain insights from seasoned professionals into the evolving landscape of materials science.   A recurring theme of the symposium was the urgent need to strengthen partnerships between industry and academia. Speakers emphasized that collaborative research, workforce development, and industry-driven projects are crucial to accelerate technological progress. Case studies from companies like Intel Corporation and GPH Ispat Ltd. demonstrated how industry collaborations have turned theoretical research into practical applications.   With its blend of insightful discussions, expert panels, and student engagement, IMR-CIA 2025 successfully established a precedent for future collaborations between academia and industry.    At its core, this was more than just a symposium—it was a call to action for the next generation of innovators.  Speakers emphasized the need for young minds to embrace cutting-edge technology, think beyond conventional boundaries, and actively contribute to scientific advancements. By fostering collaboration between industry and academia, the event aimed to create an ecosystem where students, researchers, and professionals can work together to drive transformative change in materials science and engineering.    As Bangladesh moves toward an innovation-driven economy, the knowledge shared at this symposium is expected to play a crucial role in achieving sustainable advancements in materials science and manufacturing.

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The state-of-the-art pavilions draw huge crowds at DITF-2025

With a view to attracting local and foreign visitors, the exhibitors of the month-long 29th Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF)-2025 brought innovative architectural view at their pavilions and stalls made of various materials such as steel, board, wood, bamboo, electric cables, lights, colour and ceramic items.  Chief Adviser to the Interim Government Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus inaugurated the fair at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre in Purbachal, Narayanganj on 1 January, 2025. Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin and Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) Vice-Chairman Md Anwar Hossain also attended the opening ceremony. This year, 343 domestic and foreign companies took part in the fair, including 11 companies from India, Pakistan, Turkey, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Malaysia in addition to Bangladesh. Last year, 304 companies participated in the fair, including 9 foreign companies from 5 countries. The companies set up premium pavilions, mini pavilions, and reserved pavilions at the fair venue to display various products including textiles, furniture, electrical and electronics, jute and jute products, leather products, machineries, cosmetics, home furnishings, toys, stationery, crockery, plastics, melamine, herbal and toiletries, imitation jewellery, processed food, fast food, and handicrafts. Of them, many exhibitors also offered discounts ranging from 5 to 50 per cent as well there to attract more buyers. The Ministry of Commerce and EPB have organised DITF since 1995 to promote export growth and market diversification. This is the third edition at its new venue in Purbachal, following the relocation from Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in 2022. Pavilions and stalls were awarded due to innovative architectural view The best pavilions, stalls and organizations participating in various categories were recognized by presenting crests at the closing ceremony of the fair. The first prize was awarded to 22 best companies in different categories (Kiam Metal Industries Limited, Akij Plastics Limited, RFL Plastics Limited, Prisons Department, Pran Agro Limited, M/s. Helal & Brothers, Sena Kalyan Sangstha, JDPC, BGMEA, BKMEA, Hatil Complex Ltd., Jamuna Electronics & Automobiles Ltd., Navana Furniture Limited, Vision Electronics, SME Foundation, BSCIC, Orijinal Istanbul Kristal, Turkey, Pentel (Singapore) PTE Ltd., Singapore, Kewpie Malaysia SDN, BHD, Malaysia, Sonali Bank PLC, Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC and People’s Leather Industries. The second prize was awarded to 16 companies in different categories (Savoy Ice Cream Factory Ltd., Square Food & Beverage Ltd., KY Two Tone Ltd., Alloy Aluminum Furniture Limited, Exclusive Home Tex Industries Limited, Bangladesh Machine Tools Factory Limited, Bangladesh Tea Board, Nadia Furniture Limited, Minister Hi-Tech Park Limited, Brothers Furniture, Hatim Steel Structure Limited, JMG International, Hadeks Hali DeriTekstil Dis Tic A.S., Turkey, PT Nissin Foods, Indonesia, Rabab Trading International, Hong Kong and Dutch Bangla Bank PLC. The third prize was awarded to 13 companies in different categories (Delhi Aluminium Factory, Abul Khair Milk Products Limited, SKB Stainless Steel Mills Limited, Abdul Monem Limited, BRB Cable Industries Limited, Leathergoods and Footwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association of Bangladesh, Rangpur Metal Industries-Regal Furniture, Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, Joyita Foundation, Messrs. Nurul Textile, M/S Tarique Carpet Industries, Indian Carpet Industries, and Indian Oriental Carpet, India). Touhiduzzaman, Deputy General Manager [Public Relations] PRAN-RFL Group said, “We have a lot of products like food stuffs, plastics items, furniture, and electronics. We display the products for customers at the exhibition every year. We receive the best pavilion awarded each year due to innovative architectural view.’ He pointed out that they always try to build their pavilion at the fair venue with excellent architectural views in new shapes to draw large crowds. “As there is a limited space and it is a temporary place, so we build our stalls considering it. After getting tender from the EPB, we talk to different firms of interior designers and architects. Basically they set up the pavilion as per our direction,” he added.    Touhiduzzaman stated that the stalls are set up by different construction materials like wood board, steels, tiles, bricks and others. He remarked that their main goal is to attract more customers. We decorate our stalls focusing our products. We will try to make the best pavilions in coming days as well,” he also commented. Mahin Sarker, Pavilion In-Charge of Square Food & Beverage, noted that their stall has been a hotspot for visitors due to excellent architectural views. Our pavilion got the second best pavilion award this year. “We offered up to a 50% discount on our food and beverage items, so a lot of people purchased our products. Additionally, as our company set up an attractive pavilion so visitors drew largely here,” he added. Another a-three day fair only for exportable items in October/ November   Talking to the Ceramic Bangladesh, CEO and Vice-Chairman of the EPB Md. Anwar Hossain said they tried to bring excellent architectural view in the DITF-2025. At the first time, we introduced innovative features and enhance the fair’s experience for visitors, particularly after the historic student-led revolution on 5 August, 2024. “We introduced new attractions like the 36-July Chattar and Mugdha-Sayyed Corner to showcase the revolution’s impact. Additionally, visitors enter the fair with e-tickets, eliminating the hassle of manual ticket collection.” Hossain emphasised the fair’s role in supporting local businesses and diversifying products to boost foreign currency earnings. “We invited many ceramic companies but they did not give positive response in the fair. We hope that in the next year fair, we can attract many ceramic companies in the expo as it is the potential and exportable products.   “We try to organize another a-three day expo at the first time at Purbachal venue in October or November where only exportable products will be displayed. It will help to attract more foreigners. We have no actual data on foreign visitors that how many foreign visitors visited the DITF-2025 and export orders too but many foreign visitors came here,” he highlighted.

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The Book Launch of ‘Next50: Collective Futures

A significant milestone in shaping Bangladesh’s future was marked today with the official launch of Next50: Collective Futures at BRAC University’s Multipurpose Hall. This landmark publication—the largest edited volume on Bangladesh’s built environment—brings together 81 authors, including many from the Bangladeshi diaspora, to explore the nation’s next five decades of progress, innovation, and connectivity. Spanning 49 chapters across nine major themes, the book examines urban and rural transformation, infrastructure, climate resilience, housing, governance, and technological innovation. Written in accessible language for policymakers, practitioners, and the general public, it bridges cutting-edge research with real-world impact, making complex ideas actionable for those shaping the nation’s future. The event was attended by some of Bangladesh’s most prominent architects, planners, and urbanists from both academia and professional practice. Distinguished guests included Dr. Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, and Mohammad Azaz, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation, who underscored the urgency of visionary thinking in driving sustainable and inclusive development. The program featured a compelling book introduction by Professor Fuad H. Mallick, Editor-in-Chief of Next50 and Dean of the School of Architecture and Design at BRAC University, followed by an insightful review from Dr. Mohammed Zakiul Islam, Professor at BUET, who highlighted the book’s interdisciplinary approach and its relevance to Bangladesh’s rapidly evolving urban landscape. Adding to the discussions, key stakeholders, including representatives from Shah Cement, reflected on the private sector’s role in shaping the built environment. The event concluded with remarks from the book’s executive editors, Dr. Tanzil Shafique and Dr. Saimum Kabir, who emphasized the collaborative effort behind the publication and its potential to influence future policies and practices.  Shah Cement also expressed interest in future collaborations. Beyond the discussions, the launch served as a key networking platform for scholars, policymakers, and industry leaders, fostering dialogue and collaboration on the country’s long-term development. Attendees engaged in meaningful conversations over Iftar and dinner, reinforcing the event’s role in strengthening professional and intellectual ties. Organized by Open Studio and Context BD, with support from Shah Cement, the event also reached a wider audience through a live stream, ensuring broader engagement with the book’s mission.

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Business -Of Verdant Backdrop Red Brick Surface and A Memorial Of Pride.

Architecture, in its own language, has the power to narrate stories, forge distinctive perspectives, and evoke profound emotions. The National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar is one of those powerful architectures that bear the history and bravery of the nation with its grandeur and glory. Located in Savar, an industrial hub on the outskirts of Dhaka, the monument stands tall as an emblem of reverence, embodying the nation’s profound gratitude to those brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of self-determination for the Bengali people. After taking a short tour around it, visitors can’t help but feel a sense of awe and pride as they contemplate the nation’s immense history and resilience. The vast landscape, the luscious greenery surrounding it, and the soaring height of the establishment will remind of its relative insignificance in the grand scheme of things. The month of March in Bangladesh is a time of remembrance and reflection. For millions of Bangladeshis, Independence Day is a day of extraordinary sentiments, containing both happiness and grief as the country earned its sovereignty 54 years ago at the cost of 3 million lives. Three phases of construction: The National Martyrs’ Memorial is designed by architect Syed Mainul Hossain (1952-2014). With a distinguished jury, including architect Muzharul Islam, a national design competition for the monument took place in 1978. (The previous attempt didn’t yield any satisfactory results.) Among 57 contenders, the young 26-year-old architect Mainul emerged victorious with his standout design. The inception of the project dates back to 1972, marking the acquisition of approximately 110 acres by the government. Of this expanse, 84 acres were dedicated to the construction of the main complex, while the remaining land was set aside for a verdant land-water greenbelt. The initial phase saw the creation of access roads, laying the foundation for subsequent development. In the second phase spanning from 1974 to 1982, significant infrastructural elements such as mass graves, helipads, parking facilities, and pavements were meticulously established. Finally, the third phase in 1982 witnessed the realisation of the main monument, along with the establishment of the greenbelt and a cafeteria, concluding the completion of this national monumental endeavour. The main monument was built by Concord in 1982 in only 89 days. In 1988, architect Syed Mainul Hossain received the Ekushey Padak, one of the highest civilian honours of the country, in recognition of his profound contribution to Bangladesh’s cultural heritage. A sneak peek into this architectural marvel: The central structure of the National Martyrs’ Memorial comprises seven pairs of triangular shapes, each representing pivotal events that propelled Bangladesh towards its independence. Starting with the outermost and shortest triangle, the structures progressively increase in height, leading up to the innermost peak. This architectural metaphor symbolises the nation’s ascent despite formidable challenges. The monument is made of concrete, in contrast with the rest of the structures and pavements, which are made of red bricks. Its design offers a multifaceted viewing experience, presenting a symmetrical pyramid-like formation when observed from afar. However, closer inspection reveals a dynamic interplay of angles and perspectives, inviting visitors to explore its intricate details firsthand. Notably, the surface of the structure is intentionally uneven, mirroring the tumultuous journey towards freedom and independence. This tactile representation serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience required to overcome adversity. The whole campus is adorned with trees, walkways, an artificial lake, and a cafeteria. Interplay of numbers: Numerology serves as a hidden vital factor behind the intricate design of the National Monument, reminiscent of ancient architectural wonders like the Athenian Parthenon, where numbers were revered as the essence of aesthetic perfection and cosmic harmony. At the heart of this establishment lies the mystical number 7, symbolising the seven pivotal movements that shaped Bangladesh’s path to independence between 1952 and 1971. The first of these 7 historical contexts is the language movement of 1952. This was followed by the United Front elections of 1954, the Constitution Movement of 1956, the Education Movement of 1962, the Six-Point Movement of 1966, the People’s Uprising of 1969, and then the final victory through the Great Liberation War of 1971. However, these 7 pillars or the number 7 also have different implications if we look at them from different facets. For example, among others, the Language Movement in 1952 contains 5+2=7; December 16, the day of independence in 1971, has 1+6=7; and there were 7 Birsreshto (war heroes) who sacrificed their lives for the cause of liberation. Written Kaniz F. Supriya

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Business – Smart Fire Safety is a must for SMART BANGLADESH.

A three-day 9th International Fire Safety and Security Exhibition-2024 concluded with a focus on bolstering Bangladesh’s fire safety measures and aims to reduce fire risks, utilise modern equipment for safety, and raise awareness among the mass people. In the expo held on February 17-19, the people engaged in the industry underscored the need for amending the Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC) 2020 as part of ensuring preventive measure of fire incidents and maintaining fire safety compliance in factories, housing and public infrastructure including mega projects. Held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in Dhaka, the expo was organised by Electronics Safety and Security Association of Bangladesh (ESSAB) in association with Bangladesh Fire Service and Civil Defence (BFSCD), Fire Fighting Equipment Business Owners Association of Bangladesh (FEBOAB), Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FBCCI), Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), Dhaka North and South City Corporations, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Ministry of Home Affairs. More than 100 organisations from 30 countries including the USA, the UK, EU, China, India, the United Arab Emirates, and other Middle East countries took part in the expo. And more than 15,000 local and foreign visitors visited the expo. Salman F. Rahman, Private Industry and Investment Adviser to the Prime Minister, inaugurated the expo on February 17 while Fire Service and Civil Defence Director Brigadier General Mohammad Main Uddin, FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam and BGMEA President Faruque Hassan were present, among others. Brig. Gen. Main Uddin informed a seminar during the expo that the Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) received 22,300 fire incidents per year but last year it was increased to 28,703 while on an average 150 deaths are recorded every year. In these incidents, an average loss was Tk 368 crore each year and the loss amounted to around Tk 793 crore last year. About 36 per cent fire incidents was caused by electricity last year, he added. Architect Iqbal Habib said using technology harnessing data from every level is a must to monitor and manage city infrastructure to build smart city and provide facilities to citizens. He also said if the soft copy of the building design is on the device, it will reach the fire fighters at the premises within a second. The PPP model will ensure smart safety and security solution to make sure that fire incident would not take place. Investment required for boosting the industry: With the expansion of industrialisation, the demand for fire safety and security equipment is rapidly growing in Bangladesh. But the country is still highly dependent on imported products. Industry insiders say Bangladesh has to depend on around 95 per cent import of the products. So, the country has a scope of attracting a huge investment, and also export the products meeting domestic demand for around Tk 15,000 crore market, if investors get adequate policy support from the government. ESSAB Safety Excellence Award 2024: A total of 13 organisations have been awarded at the expo for ensuring building code compliance and fire safety measures in residential, industrial, commercial buildings. Among them, Rancon Artisti Residences stood first in the residential building category, while Sheltech Rubynur stood second, and Concord Shapla third. In the Commercial Building Category, Shanta Forum, Concord MK Heritage and BGMEA Complex received the award as the First, Runner-Up and Second Runner-Up. Six companies jointly won the excellence award in the Industrial (RMG) category. Among them, Glamour Dresses Ltd. and Designtex Knitwear Ltd. were named the top winners. Tasniah Fabrics Ltd. and SQ Birichina Ltd. came next, followed by Sterling Denims Ltd. and Silken Sewing Ltd. Besides, BM Container Depot Ltd. received the award in the industrial other category. ESSAB also gave special recognition to five fire service personnel for their brave role in fire fighting and rescue operations. They are Deputy Assistant Director of Fire Service and Civil Defence Department Md. Faisalur Rahman and Mohammad Safiqul Islam, Senior Station Officer Md. Nazim Uddin Sarkar,  Warehouse Inspector Md. Zahirul Islam and Fire Fighter Alhaj Miah. PPP required to explore untapped market: ESSAB: The ESSAB Secretary General, Zakir Uddin Ahmed, said the sector is important to protect people’s lives and properties from fire and earthquake incidents, and ensure sustainable economic development. So, what are needed include significant awareness, regular checks of the fire safety equipment, and use of quality materials. Mr. Zakir, also Chief Executive Officer of ZM International, stated that PPP is required to explore the untapped market. “We are ready to help investors here. So, policy assistance is the main issue to bring more investment. To create awareness, he fires safety issue should be included in textbooks,” he said adding that high import duty on the products is a key challenge in the industry. In this context, the government should provide all necessary facilities such as policy support, duty cut, and incentive so that investors come to invest in the sector.

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