A significant challenge in global education is the attrition of students from science backgrounds.
Approximately 80% of college students change their majors at least once, with about 30% of undergraduates modifying their major within three years of initial enrollment. Specifically within STEM, 35% of students switch their majors within three years. At the bachelor’s degree level, 48% of STEM students leave these fields by either switching majors or dropping out of college before earning a degree, with roughly half transitioning to non-STEM fields.
This trend is particularly pronounced in regions like Bangladesh, which has seen a diminishing interest in science education over the past two decades. Key factors contributing to this include personal preference, associated costs, limited career opportunities, and the classroom environment. Systemic issues such as poor teaching, inadequate laboratory facilities, a culture of rote memorization, and major voids in curriculum design and teacher training also play a significant role. Furthermore, economic disparities often create financial barriers for students from deprived and middle-class backgrounds to pursue science education.
Science Bee emerges as a critical solution to these challenges. Founded in 2018 by S. M. Mobin Sikder, Science Bee is Bangladesh’s first and largest STEM-based edtech startup. It is a unique platform dedicated to ensuring quality education for all and making science education more popular and accessible, directly addressing the systemic and individual barriers to STEM engagement.
Science Bee is not merely a website or a social media page; it is a comprehensive digital ecosystem designed to engage learners at multiple levels. Its strength lies in its diverse and interconnected platforms.
- The Central Knowledge Hub
The core of the operation is the website. It serves as a vast repository of scientific knowledge, featuring:
1. Articles and blogs on a wide range of scientific topics, all written in clear, accessible Bengali.
2. A “Question and Answer” section where students can have their curiosities addressed by experts and peers.
3. Up-to-date science news from around the world, localized for a Bengali audience. - The Community Engine by Massive Facebook Groups
Understanding that community is key to learning, Science Bee has cultivated a colossal presence on Facebook, the most popular social media platform in Bangladesh. These groups are the lifeblood of the movement.
1. Science Bee — বিজ্ঞান গ্রুপ(Science Bee — Science Group): Science Bee — Bigyan Group is one of the largest science-based communities in Bangladesh, with over 762,000 members. It serves as a vibrant platform where people regularly ask questions related to science and general knowledge, share fascinating facts, and publish informative and research-based articles. The group promotes scientific curiosity and discussion among students, enthusiasts, and professionals alike, making science more accessible and engaging for all.
2. এই পোস্টে বিজ্ঞান কই?(Where is the Science in This Post?): Ei post e bigyan koi? is one of the largest science-based meme communities in Bangladesh, boasting over 722,000 members. The group blends humor with scientific thinking, where members regularly share creative and informative memes rooted in science. Beyond entertainment, this community has proven its strength by actively participating in national movements, using witty scientific logic and memes as powerful tools for awareness and change.
3. Science Bee — বিজ্ঞান ও গবেষণা(Science Bee — Science & Research): Science Bee — Bigyan O Gobeshona is a vibrant Facebook group with over 392,000 members, where curiosity meets knowledge. Members regularly post diverse scientific questions, sparking engaging discussions and critical thinking. The group primarily focuses on higher education and research-based learning, making it a dynamic platform for students, researchers, and science enthusiasts to explore ideas, share insights, and stay updated with the world of science. - Beyond the Digital Realm
Science Bee’s impact extends beyond the online platform through on-campus workshops, online competitions, e-book publications, and a popular science talk show called “The Bee Show”(It is currently closed), which features prominent figures in the field.
The success of this model has been profound. Science Bee has reached millions of learners across Bangladesh and some parts of India, creating what is arguably one of the largest Bangla-language STEM platforms in Bangladesh.
Founder S. M. Mobin Sikder is a recipient of The Diana Award 2023, a prestigious international honor recognizing young people who work to improve the lives of others. The organization has also received the YSSE Global Education Award and the BYLC Volunteer Awards 2021, cementing its status as a leading force for educational change in the region.
Reviews from the Community
“Don’t lose hope, because you have to be strong. There are many platforms available for your support. Science Bee is creating the pathway to expand science education in Bangladesh.” — Sadat Rahman, Child World Peace Prize Winner 2020
“Science Bee is doing great in making people more interested in Science. We always need young scientists, it will be a good thing for our country, obviously.” — Tasnim Jara, EM Doctor at NHS England, Co–founder at Shohay
“We need to find hidden talents in the mainstream. That’s wonderful to hear that you guys are working with that.” — Wahid Ibn Reza, VFX Coordinator, Hollywood
The story of Science Bee is more than just a local success — it stands as a case study in grassroots innovation with global relevance. It proves that solving deep-rooted educational challenges doesn’t always demand capital-heavy, top-down reforms. Instead, by embracing the local language, utilizing accessible technology, and cultivating a passionate community, Science Bee has sparked a science movement among young Bangladeshis. With the launch of its official mobile application, the introduction of real-life skill-based and research-oriented courses, and its commitment to reaching underserved regions through offline workshops, Science Bee is actively breaking the digital divide. More importantly, it’s empowering youth to become science communicators, critical thinkers, and future researchers. For nations around the world striving to make education equitable and inspiring, Science Bee offers a powerful blueprint: empower local leaders, speak in a language people understand, and build communities that can carry the torch of knowledge forward. In doing so, we can democratize science and unlock the untapped potential of the next generation.
