Bangladesh is participating for the first time in the International Olympiad on Climate Change and Environmental Issues (IOCE 2025).

The event will be held in Sochi, Russia, from September 13 to 20.

More than 20 countries are expected to participate in the week-long competition, which will feature written tests, lab work, field research, workshops, and a project exhibition.

Bangladesh’s team includes one team leader and four students. FlyDubai sponsors their participation.

The country’s entry project is an AI-based Wildfire Prediction System. It uses solar-powered IoT sensors and artificial intelligence to detect real-time fire risks.

The system is designed to be cost-effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable. It aims to improve early warning systems and support climate resilience.

The team will first take part in theoretical exams. They will then complete environmental tasks in a nature reserve and submit a lab report.

Final scores will be based on performance across all activities.

Farhan Masud Tassine, a postgraduate student at BRAC University, leads Team Bangladesh. The student members are: Mahdi Bin Ferdaus from Vashantek Government College, Taseen Mohammad from BIAM Model School & College, Md Nur Ahmad from Rajshahi Collegiate School and Md Ashikur Rahman from Harimohan Government High School.

The students come from different parts of the country. They aim to highlight Bangladesh’s innovation on a global stage.

The Sirius Federal Territory and the Talent & Success Educational Foundation are the organizers of IOCE 2025, which is also supported by Russia’s Ministry of Education.

The Olympiad will also host discussions on renewable energy, biodiversity, waste management, and urban sustainability.

Bangladesh’s participation marks a shift in how the country presents itself on climate issues. Often described as climate-vulnerable, it now seeks to be seen as part of the solution.

The initiative supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, including climate action, innovation, and partnerships.