A New Generation Steps onto the Road of Research

Dr. Mashiur Rahman

A prosperous, self-reliant Bangladesh is a dream we all share. Skyscrapers and impressive economic growth are undoubtedly symbols of progress, but true advancement depends on our capacity to build a knowledge-based society. Only a nation that not only enjoys others’ technologies but also generates new knowledge and devises its own solutions can achieve enduring stature on the world stage. The bedrock of this knowledge creation is research—a long, patient, and challenging journey. To welcome the younger generation to this path and make the way smoother, the science and technology platform ‘Biggani.org’ is reinventing itself.

Over the years, ‘Biggani.org’ has become a source of inspiration for young researchers and aspiring scientists. Regular readers will have noticed that we routinely publish must-read book lists for research, straightforward instructions on laboratory equipment usage, and explanations of fundamental research topics in simple language. We also share interviews with experienced scientists, which spark curiosity in young minds and open up new horizons for them. But inspiration alone is never enough—precise guidance is also essential. As the field of research in Bangladesh continues to expand, it becomes even clearer how scarce suitable resources are for young researchers in the Bengali language. Even where a handful of books do exist, complex language and overly theoretical presentations often discourage beginners right from the start. It is our sense of responsibility to fill this void that has added a new dimension to our activities.

Today’s world is an endless ocean of information. In the age of the internet and artificial intelligence, accessing any information seems a matter of seconds. Yet, this mountain of information is sometimes a source of confusion rather than a blessing for novice students. Selecting accurate and relevant data and confidently navigating the initial steps of research can be daunting for many. This is where a trusted guide becomes necessary. We want to take on that role. By organizing scattered information and presenting it in standard and accessible Bengali, we aim—with our new initiative ‘First Steps in Research’—to equip budding researchers with everything they need, all in one place, to give them the courage to embark on their research journey free from hesitation.

However, this path is far from smooth. Behind it lie deep-seated cultural barriers. For a long time, our education system has fostered an invisible tendency towards shortcuts. Reliance on notes or guidebooks instead of reading original texts has become second nature for many of us. This inclination is now seeping even into fields like research, which demand the utmost dedication and integrity. The spread of unethical practices—such as hiring others to write research papers or committing data fraud—is a dangerous manifestation of this trend. Young people must realize: there are no shortcuts in the pursuit of knowledge. True success in research depends on honesty, perseverance, and the tireless effort over a long period. The dedication and hard work with which a researcher generates new knowledge have no substitute. Such misconduct not only jeopardizes the individual’s future but also taints the entire academic environment of the country.

Therefore, our job is not only to provide information but also to help lay the ethical foundations of research. While the interview of a renowned scientist might ignite dreams in young minds, we must also convey the message that realizing those dreams demands inner strength and perseverance. Every stage of research—from choosing a topic, to literature review, data collection, analysis, and eventually writing the paper—requires deep patience and sustained effort. There is no elevator to the summit of success; one must take the stairs. Our platform wishes to deliver that message to the younger generation.

For a country to be truly self-reliant, it must move beyond the mentality of importing or marketing products made by others. We have to solve our own problems and develop the required technologies through our own innovation. All countries that are now developed and influential have a significant portion of their population engaged in research and development. They generate new knowledge and share it with the world. We do not wish to remain merely a labor-exporting nation; we want our youth to grow into skilled and innovative minds, capable of producing world-class work right here in Bangladesh.

This is the vision that guides ‘Biggani.org’. We believe that with the right guidance and support, the Jamal Nazrul Islam or Satyendra Nath Bose of tomorrow will emerge from among our youth. Our humble initiative ‘First Steps in Research’ is dedicated to making that dream a reality. We invite all aspiring and ambitious new researchers in Bangladesh: join this journey, read our articles, enrich yourselves, and spread this message among your fellow young researchers. Together, through collective effort, we can build a knowledge-based, innovative, and prosperous Bangladesh—founded upon this broad and promising road of research.