Young innovators shine with cutting-edge tech at digital expo

From underwater drones exploring the ocean depths to Mars rovers navigating simulated alien terrain, Bangladeshi youth are quietly but confidently reshaping the nation’s technological landscape.

Their inventions, developed in university labs and student workshops, took centre stage at Bangladesh’s largest technology showcase, the four-day Digital Device and Innovation Expo 2026, which opened yesterday at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center (BCFCC) in Dhaka.

The expo offered more than gadgets and discounts; it highlighted a generation driven by purpose. From maritime surveillance and disaster rescue to agricultural automation and space exploration, the message was clear: Bangladesh’s young innovators are taking small steps toward big dreams.

UNDERWATER ROBOTICS TAKE CENTRE STAGE

One of the most talked-about attractions was Leviathan 2.0, a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) developed by MIST Mavirov, a student-led robotics team from the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST).

Developed over seven months by an eleven-member team, Leviathan 2.0 is a wired underwater drone that can dive up to 120 feet. It features real-time video surveillance, allowing it to inspect underwater conditions, monitor structures, and assist in detection missions.

Ankon Das Joy, the team’s spokesperson, said their focus was on making the system reliable for real-world use.

The team also showcased Creeper 1.0, a wireless underwater surveillance vehicle for shallower depths. With long-distance control and live video transmission, Creeper 1.0 could be used for research, inspection, and even military or security purposes.

SURFACE AND DISASTER RESPONSE INNOVATIONS

Across the hall, innovation took to the water’s surface. Dreams of Bangladesh (DoB), a cross-university robotics team, showcased DoB Joljan, an autonomous surface vehicle designed for disaster response.

The unmanned system can carry out rescue operations during floods, collect situational data, transmit video feeds, and even help extinguish fires on water surface.

The project has already gained international recognition, earning a spot in a global student robotics competition in the United States.

DoB’s work goes beyond a single vehicle. The team is also developing autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to monitor submerged environments and a range of agricultural robots.

These include systems for soil testing, AI-based disease detection, precision spraying, sound-wave pest control, laser-based weed management, and solar-powered solutions.

Their innovations extend into aerospace as well, with model rockets and surveillance drones under development.

Mahadi Hasan, co-lead of DoB, said, “We want to do something for our countrymen and excel in technology. We are taking small steps to pursue a big dream.”

He added that increased government support and investment could help such innovations grow and succeed.

BANGLADESH VENTURES INTO SPACE

United International University (UIU) represented the journey from Earth to outer space by showcasing a Mars rover designed to work in a simulated Martian environment. Built to withstand Mars-like weather, the rover can perform pick-and-drop tasks and take part in rescue missions.

The project has already won several competitions, including third place at a NASA contest in 2024.

“If we get government funding, we can showcase our technology globally,” said Ashik Al Islam Arpon, UIU’s project coordinator. “Bangladesh’s entry into aerospace technology may be small, but it is definitely a beginning.”

Beyond the innovation stalls, the expo attracted large crowds to commercial booths selling laptops, computers, cameras, CCTV systems, smart gadgets, televisions, and smartphones.

Shakib Arafat, founder of TechTime, said, “Customers were enjoying up to 25 percent off official iPhones, drawing an overwhelming response.”

Md Jannatul Naim, marketing lead at DX Group, reported strong sales thanks to heavy discounts on smartphones and televisions.