01/09/2026
From a Childhood Dream to the International Stage: Keya Akter Soma
It all began with a childhood dream. Today, that small dream has grown beyond national boundaries and is taking her to the international stage. Keya Akter Soma, a 5th-semester student of the 39th batch in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) at Gono University, is building her journey around technology, research, and robotics. Alongside her academic studies, she has been actively involved in practical technology, research, and innovative projects, steadily developing the skills and experience needed to turn her ambitions into reality.
Her passion for technology began around Class 8, when she became fascinated by small robots, electronics, and technology-based projects. However, without proper guidance and opportunities, she could not fully transform that early interest into practical skills. After entering university, the guidance, learning opportunities, and hands-on experience provided by Robo Tech Valley gave her childhood dream a new direction and momentum.
The journey, however, was far from easy. Alongside university classes, studies, and research, she often travelled to Mirpur after class to work on projects. The long commute meant returning home late on many days. Despite the pressure, fatigue, and busy schedule, she kept moving forward. She believes that hard work, patience, and consistency can eventually turn dreams into reality.
Since the beginning of her university journey, Keya has been actively involved in technology-driven research and project-based work alongside her peers. For the past two years, she has been working on two technology-focused projects. One of them, โMilitary Defense System with Camera and Smart Robotic Arm,โ has been successfully completed. Combining AI, cameras, and a smart robotic arm, the project is designed to support remote observation in high-risk environments, assist in identifying suspicious objects, and reduce human exposure to danger. More than simply building a technology solution, the project gave her valuable hands-on experience in addressing real-world problems through innovation.
Her second research project is currently in the development stage. The team is working on a system that uses a drone-mounted camera and multiple sensors to monitor designated areas, collect information, and assist in identifying suspicious objects. In the future, technologies of this kind could contribute to security systems, defense applications, and emergency response operations.
Throughout this journey, the support, guidance, and learning opportunities provided by Robo Tech Valley have been invaluable. Working on real-world projects, learning emerging technologies, collaborating as a team, solving problems, and turning research ideas into practical solutions have played a major role in strengthening her skills and confidence.
Some of their technology-driven projects have had the opportunity to be presented and evaluated at international platforms in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. At the national level, two innovative projects have also earned Champion and Second Runner-Up titles, marking important milestones in their journey.
Building on these achievements, Keya has been selected to represent Bangladesh at an international science, innovation, and robotics competition organized by the Malaysia Young Scientist Organisation (MYSO). She is preparing to represent Bangladesh in Malaysia this September. The opportunity to stand on an international stage carrying the national flag is not only a matter of pride for her, but also a powerful source of inspiration to dream bigger and aim higher.
Keya believes that Bangladeshโs young generation has immense potential. What they need is the right guidance, access to research opportunities, technological support, and investment. With the right opportunities and encouragement, young innovators can take Bangladeshโs ideas and technologies to a much larger global stage.
This journey is not simply a story of achievements; it is the story of how a small childhood dream gradually grew into a greater possibility. From developing an interest in small robots in Class 8 to earning the opportunity to represent Bangladesh internationally, every step has taught her that with the right guidance, hard work, and consistent effort, even a small dream can eventually grow into something truly meaningful.
Every great journey can begin with a small dream. The road may be challenging, and success may take time, but learning, trying, and moving forward should never stop. Because the small efforts we make today can become the success stories we tell tomorrow.
