When talented students from Bangladesh go abroad to study or start working, a question often arises—does the country lose them? The answer to this question can be found in the life of Dr. Abul Hussam. In his words, “Even from abroad, it is possible to make a meaningful contribution to the country.” This single sentence is not just a reflection of personal experience, but also a powerful message for thousands of expatriate Bangladeshi scientists and researchers.
Dr. Hussam is a Professor of Analytical Chemistry at George Mason University in the United States and the Director of the Center for Clean Water and Sustainable Technologies. Although he lives in the US, one of the primary inspirations for his research came from a real problem in rural Bangladesh—arsenic contamination. When the presence of arsenic was detected in tube well water in Bangladesh during the 1990s, many scientists began to research the issue. But Dr. Hussam’s thinking was different. He realized that while it was important to publish research papers, there was also a need for a practical solution that could be used by ordinary villagers.
This idea led to the creation of the Sono Filter—a water purification system that works without electricity and can be made from materials readily available locally. As a result, it became accessible to rural poor communities. Even from abroad, this technology played a crucial role in ensuring the right to safe water for people in Bangladesh. It demonstrates that geographic distance can never create a distance of responsibility.
Many young Bangladeshi researchers living abroad believe they have to stay in the country to work on its problems. In reality, Dr. Hussam’s experience tells a different story. By utilizing modern laboratories, international collaboration, and the global pool of knowledge, it is possible to find effective solutions to the country’s problems while living abroad. In fact, in many cases, the technological advantages and research infrastructure available overseas allow for even greater contributions to be made for the homeland.
However, this path is not easy. Living abroad means being away from your roots. Over time, many people become disconnected from the realities of their home country. But Dr. Hussam has regularly traveled to Bangladesh, worked with local scientists, and kept real field problems at the center of his research. This shows that it is possible to maintain both mental and professional connections to the country from abroad—if the sense of responsibility is clear.
This example is important for the younger generation. Today, higher education and research are increasingly becoming global endeavors. It is natural that many young people will go abroad to study. The question is, will they limit their knowledge and skills to building their own careers, or will they also make the issues of their country a part of their research? Dr. Hussam’s life provides a real answer to this question. Expatriation does not mean disconnection; rather, it can open new doors of opportunity for the country.
For this reason, “Even from abroad, it is possible to make a meaningful contribution to the country”—this statement is not just a matter of personal experience, but also presents a new perspective for thinking about the scientific future of Bangladesh. It reminds us that, to contribute to the country’s development, what’s needed is not geography, but responsibility, foresight, and a humanitarian spirit.
Read the full interview with Dr. Abul Hussam:
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