NASA Congratulates Bangladesh on Artemis Accords, Praises Young Innovators

The Government of Bangladesh has recently signed the Artemis Accords—an important international agreement on space exploration and cooperation. In response to this historic milestone, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the United States has extended heartfelt congratulations, recognizing the remarkable contributions of the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) and the country’s young innovators on the global stage.
On behalf of Acting Administrator Janet Petro, Allison James from the Global Community Management Team of the NASA Space Apps Challenge praised Bangladesh in a special email. He wrote, “The young minds of Bangladesh have shown the world their passion for space exploration. In four of the last six years, Bangladeshi innovators have been global champions in NASA’s Space Apps Challenge… I have no doubt we will continue to see extraordinary scientists, engineers and even future astronauts emerge from Bangladesh.”
This international recognition is a proud moment for the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS), which has been organizing the NASA Space Apps Challenge in Bangladesh for the last 11 consecutive years. Over the past decade, BASIS has played a pivotal role in nurturing innovation and science among Bangladeshi youth by investing financial and logistical resources, arranging venues across the country, and even sponsoring international trips for winning teams to attend global events and award ceremonies.
Through its consistent efforts, Bangladesh has emerged as a global champion in this prestigious competition four times, including three consecutive years. In 2018, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology’s ‘Team Olik’ won in the ‘Best Use of Data’ category with their lunar VR project. In 2021, ‘Team Mohakash’ from KUET and BAUET became champions in the ‘Best Mission Concept’ category, followed by ‘Team Diamonds’ in 2022, winning in the ‘Most Inspirational’ category. Most recently, ‘Team Voyagers’ from Bangladesh clinched the ‘Best Storytelling’ award in 2023.
Reflecting on this continued success, Rafel Kabir, Chairman of the BASIS Associate Committee, stated, “When we see one of our own at NASA raising the flag of Bangladesh, it fills us with pride. This competition opens a gateway for our youth to think freely and creatively in the fields of science and technology. I believe initiatives like this ignite the desire and ambition among our younger generation to become scientists in the future.”
BASIS strongly believes that Bangladesh’s growing involvement in space research and innovation will further inspire young minds to think beyond boundaries and emerge as global innovators. The recognition and congratulatory message from NASA stands as a powerful source of encouragement for Bangladesh’s youth and a testament to their potential on the world stage.