BURS Hosts First-Ever Research Confluence at University of Barishal

The Barishal University Research Society (BURS) proudly hosted the BURS 1st Research Confluence–2025, a landmark academic gathering aimed at fostering a vibrant research culture within the University of Barishal. Held on May 26 at the Kirtankhola Hall, this first-of-its-kind event brought together undergraduate students, faculty, and visiting teams from institutions across Bangladesh.

The day-long confluence centered on promoting student-led research and interdisciplinary collaboration, offering a dynamic platform for the exchange of innovative ideas and academic insights. The program featured three main components:

  • Research Proposal Competition

  • Research Quiz Contest

  • Research Dialogue Session

Over 13 student teams presented original research proposals to a distinguished panel of judges, with topics spanning science, technology, business, and the social sciences. The diversity and depth of ideas showcased reflected a growing culture of scholarly inquiry at the University of Barishal and beyond.

The event was inaugurated by Professor Dr. Mohammad Taufiq Alam, Honorable Vice-Chancellor of the University of Barishal, who served as the Chief Guest. In his keynote remarks, he emphasized the role of research in shaping the identity of modern universities.

“Through research, a university can become a true hub of knowledge,” he stated. “I believe Barishal University will soon emerge as a distinguished center for academic excellence and impactful research.”

He also announced the upcoming installation of mobile app-operated washing machines in student dormitories, showcasing a commitment to student welfare alongside academic initiatives.

The research proposals were evaluated by a panel of esteemed faculty members, including:

  • Dr. Subroto Kumar Das, Associate Professor and Chairman, Department of Botany
  • Dr. Abdullah Al Masud, Associate Professor and Chairman, Department of Management Studies
  • Dr. Md. Khorshed Alam, Associate Professor, Department of Physics
  • Dr. Rehana Parvin, Associate Professor and Chairman, Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology
  • Rifat Mahmud, Associate Professor, Department of Public Administration
  • Md. Mahiuddin Sabbir, Associate Professor, Department of Marketing

 

Competition Highlights and Award-Winning Proposals

  • Faculty of Science
    • 1st Place: Harnessing GIS for Green Space Evolution of Barisal City, Bangladesh
    • 2nd Place: Improving Access to Affordable and Safe Sanitary Pads
    • 3rd Place (Jointly):
      • Flaxseed-Driven Omega-3 Enrichment in Quail Eggs
      • Integrating Statistical and Geo-Chemical Modeling to Identify the Sources of Groundwater Contamination

 

  • Faculty of Social Science & Business Studies
    • 1st Place: Language Death, Identity Loss, and Minority Marginalization: A Socio-Cultural Analysis of the Khari Language’s Endangerment in Bangladesh

 

Winning teams were recognized in a concluding awards ceremony, where certificates were presented by the Vice-Chancellor and jury members.

The organizing committee of BURS extended heartfelt thanks to all participants, faculty, volunteers, and supporting institutions. Special appreciation was conveyed to Bangladesh Research Society (BDRS) and PSTU Research Society for their collaborative support. With the tagline “An Arena for Ideas, Exploration, and Innovation,” the BURS 1st Research Confluence–2025 marks a significant step toward building a stronger, research-driven academic culture at the University of Barishal.

Presented Research Proposals

Title of Research ProposalPresenter(s) / Team Members
Mitigation of Waterlogging Stress on Growth and Yield of Tomato Using Low-Cost Natural MaterialsHafijur Rahman, Md. Mohidul Alam Sabbir, Sarder Yeamin Kabir, Mohammad Mustakim, Afia Fahmida, Mariam Binte Azad Jhuma, Tuhin Sultana, Nafisa Anjum, Mst. Tasmim Islam Era, Tasnuba Tasnim, Musfica Zannat, Mst. Hasiba Akter
Unveiling Hidden Contaminants: Microbial Load and Hygiene Practices in Raw Salads Used in Street FoodsMd. Shajadul Islam, Faiaz Morshed Khan, Mahmudul Hossain, Tasfiah Tahsin Bushra, Shakira Mustari, Mahmudul Hasan Jewel, Sanjarah Tamim
Improving Access to Affordable & Safe Sanitary PadsAfifa Zaben
Uncovering Hidden Threats: Microbial Contamination and Antimicrobial Resistance in Commercial Pet FeedMd. Simoon Hasan, Rufaida Jerin, Prof. Dr. Farzana Islam Rume
Integrating Statistical and Geochemical Modeling to Identify the Sources of Groundwater ContaminationKhandoker Mariatul Islam, Afroja Khanam Sonia, Mahzabin Akhter
Assessing the Source of Groundwater Contamination and Human Health Risk of Meghna River Basin, BangladeshAfroja Khanam Sonia, Mahzabin Akhter, Khandoker Mariatul Islam
Enhancing Soil Strength Using Recycled Plastic Waste: A Sustainable Approach to Ground Improvement in Barishal, BangladeshMd. Manjurul Islam, Md. Tamim, Kallol Kumar Roy, Shourav Mondal, Suraiya Akter Afrin, Bijoy Das, Afia Afrin Pushpo
Harnessing GIS for Green Space Evaluation of Barishal City, BangladeshUmama Jamal, Ummey Tamanna Parvin Smirty, Yasmin Ara, Suraiya Akter Afrin, Esrat Jahan Papri, Bonosree Biswas, Akhi Halder, Susmita Sultana, Mizanur Rahaman, Wasey Tamim Bin Ashraf
Understanding and Mitigating the Impact of Cyclonic Storm Surges in Southern Coastal BangladeshHalima Akter, Musrat Mehjabin Asha, Muhammad Iftekhar Uddin
Flaxseed-Driven Omega-3 Enrichment in Quail EggsSamia Hoque, Rufaida Jerin, Prof. Dr. Prodip Kumar Sarkar
Multipurpose Rescue Robot for Bomb Disposal, Earthquake Relief, and Firefighting OperationsMd. Shajad Sheikh, Nurjahan Ohi, Nafiz Sadik, Md. Abdullah Al Fahad Biswas
Beyond the Rack: A Holistic Study of Second-Hand Clothing, Including Minimalism, Resource Sharing, Social Stigma, Hygiene, and SuperstitionLafifa Mahabub Jameni, Konok Chapa, Binto Begum, Nur Mahammud, Md. Arafat, Md. Maynuddin
Language Death, Identity Loss, and Minority Marginalization: A Socio-Cultural Analysis of the Kharia Language’s Endangerment in BangladeshMeraz Hossen Cesti, Nure Jahan Shoshi, Maliha Masud Bushra, Taurat Jahan, Israt Jahan Tania, Tahrima Jafrin Shakila, Umma Hapsa, Md. Mahmudul Hasan, Jarin Tasnim, Umme Hani
Climate-Induced Migration and Its Effects on Social Cohesion in Host Communities: A Study in Khulna City, BangladeshNirjhar Saha Samya, Mabia Sultana Tisha