The 8th National Earth and Space Summit (NESS), hosted by the Notre Dame Eco and Space Club, concluded on February 22, 2025, after three days of events and enthusiastic participation from students across the nation. The event started on February 20 at Notre Dame College and drew approximately 2,000 participants and visitors from over 60 institutions, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of scientific exploration.

The summit, with Western Engineering as the title sponsor and Bata as the gold sponsor, provided a platform for students from primary to higher secondary levels to engage in a variety of competitions and activities. Events ranged from quizzes and debates to olympiads, covering diverse aspects of ecology, earth science, and astronomy.

One of the most anticipated sessions was the astrophotography talk by Zubuyer Kaolin, which attracted nearly 1,000 attendees. His insightful presentation and the accompanying photosphere exhibition offered a captivating glimpse into the cosmos.

Adding to the excitement, students from the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) unveiled their "Formula IUT" project – their formula student car – on campus. The MICB Scientific Society, the telescope partner, provided a unique opportunity for attendees to observe the sun through a solar telescope.

"The enthusiasm and participation we witnessed were truly remarkable," said Md Nazmul Hassan, moderator of the Notre Dame Eco and Space Club. "This summit stands as a testament to our mission of inspiring curiosity and scientific exploration among students."

Notre Dame College Principal Dr Fr Hemanto Pius Rozario emphasised the importance of nurturing young minds in STEM fields, stating, "Hosting this event has been a privilege. It is essential to nurture young minds in astronomy and ecology, as their passion and discoveries will shape the future of scientific progress."

The summit's success highlights its role as a catalyst for innovation, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers. With the support of sponsors like Savoy Ice Cream and Dot Internet, which provided complimentary refreshments and internet access, the event created a memorable and enriching experience for all participants. The 8th NESS has left a lasting impact, igniting a passion for science and exploration that will undoubtedly drive future endeavours.