YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025/Call for Venues/Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU)
Bid for YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025 at Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU)
We are excited to propose Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU), Dumki, Patuakhali, as the host for the YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025. Our goal is to establish a welcoming platform where professionals, academics, developers, and students from all backgrounds can collaborate and explore the knowledge of OpenStreetMap (OSM) in solving real-world challenges.
Patuakhali, located in the southern coastal region of Bangladesh, provides a unique setting for this event. As a region experiencing environmental, infrastructural, and developmental challenges, it highlights the practical importance of mapping for disaster resilience, urban planning, resource management, and technological advancements. The summit will encourage discussions on how OSM can contribute to various sectors, from disaster response to smart infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
PSTU, as a leading academic institution, provides an exceptional scientific environment for this conference. The university supports research in areas such as geospatial studies, environmental science, and technology-driven solutions, making it an ideal venue for hands-on workshops and interactive sessions.
Additionally, as part of the summit experience, we can organize a visit to Kuakata, a breathtaking coastal destination which will provide participants with an opportunity to explore Bangladesh’s unique coastal geography, experience the rich cultural heritage of the region, and see firsthand how geospatial data can contribute to sustainable tourism.
We have a plan for the first night of the event to entertain our honorable guests and participants; we will arrange a gala night so they won’t feel bored.
By hosting the YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025 at PSTU, we aim to connect passionate individuals from different backgrounds, foster collaboration, and empower participants with mapping skills that can drive meaningful change for Bangladesh and beyond.
Team
How many members does the local team have?
- The local team consists of 60 members. All are students of the Patuakhali Science and Technology University and active members of the YouthMappers PSTU Chapter.
Is the local team situated nearby the venue?
- Yes, the local team is located on-campus, in Residential Hall as they can fully cooperate with the event.
How many of the team members are situated in the city of the venue?
- At least 25 members live in Patuakhali and Barishal city, where the venue is located, they can easily give their support for the event.
How are the team and the group members connected to OpenStreetMap?
- The team members are actively involved with OpenStreetMap (OSM) through YouthMappers: mapping, organizing campus based mapathons and events. They are also involved with different types of mapping related activities like in 2022 one of our PSTU YouthMappers team won the OSM Nano Grant project., Many of our active members have participated In YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2023 and SoTM Asia 2024. Additionally, PSTU YouthMappers got the National Collaboration Award - Bangladesh for most attendance in YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2023.
Do some group members have experience in organizing a larger conference?
- Yes, several members have experience in organizing and volunteering in large-scale events, including: PSTU YouthMappers was the collaboration partner in YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2023 also our chapter President and vice President was on the organizing team for that event. Also, some of our core members participated in State of The Map Asia - 2024 as volunteers (in SotMAsia24Volunteers BD panel).
Bid/Wiki Form
Is the form fully filled in?
- Yes
Venue
Reservation of the the venue (contract doesn't have to be signed, but the local team should have the confirmation of the venue operator and optimally a pre-booking of the venue at the proposed conference dates)
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TSC Conference Room – Patuakhali Science and Technology University
The TSC conference room at Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) is a well-equipped space designed for meetings, seminars, workshops, and academic discussions. It features modern amenities, including comfortable seating arrangements, advanced audiovisual systems, and high-speed internet connectivity to facilitate seamless presentations and virtual meetings.
With its spacious layout and professional ambiance, the conference room provides an ideal environment for faculty members, researchers, and students to engage in knowledge-sharing and collaborative activities. Whether hosting academic conferences, administrative meetings, or special events, the room serves as a central hub for innovation and intellectual exchange at PSTU.
With its professional ambiance and state-of-the-art facilities, the PSTU auditorium stands ready to support the success of YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025 and other impactful events.
Venue Location: TSC 4th floor, PSTU.
Capacity: 250+
Facilities: Electricity, Internet, Air Condition, Power Backup, Multimedia, Toilet (Male and Female both)
Booking: We don’t need a pre-booking step; we can manage the venue any time.
Backup Venue:
Auditorium – Patuakhali Science and Technology University
The auditorium at Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) is a spacious and well-equipped venue designed to host large-scale academic, cultural, and professional events. With a high-capacity seating arrangement, modern sound and lighting systems, and a large stage, the auditorium provides an ideal setting for conferences, seminars, and special programs.
As part of our preparations for the YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025, the auditorium will serve as a backup venue, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants. If needed, this dynamic space will accommodate key sessions, discussions, and presentations, fostering collaboration and innovation among mapping enthusiasts and experts from across Bangladesh.
Venue Location: Agricultural Faculty, PSTU.
Capacity: 400+
Facilities: Electricity, Internet, Multimedia, Toilet
Venues for Breakout Sessions:
1. Agriculture Seminar Room
The Agriculture Seminar Room at Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) is a well-equipped, modern space designed for interactive discussions and professional gatherings.The room features high-speed Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and advanced audiovisual technology, making it an excellent venue for breakout sessions.
For the YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025, this seminar room will provide a comfortable and tech-friendly environment for workshops, group discussions, and hands-on training sessions. It's quiet and professional setting will ensure smooth and productive interactions among participants.
Capacity: 80+
2. PSTU Innovation Center – Breakout Session Venue
The PSTU Innovation Center is a dynamic space designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. Equipped with modern workstations, interactive whiteboards, and high-speed internet, this center provides an ideal environment for brainstorming, hands-on workshops, and technical discussions.
For the YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025, the Innovation Center will serve as a breakout session venue, allowing participants to engage in focused discussions, project collaborations, and skill-building activities. With a setup that encourages innovation and teamwork, this space will be instrumental in driving impactful conversations and knowledge exchange during the summit.
Capacity: 40+
3. Virtual Classrooms – CSE Faculty
The virtual classrooms at the CSE Faculty offer a technology-driven learning environment with smart boards, high-speed internet, and video conferencing facilities. This setup makes it an ideal alternative venue for hosting remote sessions, panel discussions, and live-streamed workshops during the summit.
Capacity: 30+
4. CIT Lab (Center for Information Technology)
The CIT Lab is a high-tech computing facility designed to support digital learning and research. Equipped with high-performance computers, GIS software, and data processing tools, this lab will serve as a backup space for hands-on mapping sessions and technical demonstrations.
Capacity: 60+
5. Game Development Lab
The Game Development Lab at PSTU is a creative space featuring advanced computing systems, virtual reality (VR) setups, and 3D modeling software. This venue will act as an alternative for interactive workshops, innovation-driven discussions, and exploring mapping technologies in game development.
Capacity: 35+
With these state-of-the-art backup venues, PSTU ensures a flexible and well-equipped environment for the YouthMappers Bangladesh Summit 2025, making it a seamless and successful event.
Floor plan with auditoriums, foyer and breakout rooms:
Main Venue: PSTU Conference Room
Backup Venues:
- Auditorium (Large sessions & keynote speeches)
- Foyer (Registration, networking, and informal discussions)
Breakout Rooms:
- Agriculture Seminar Room
- Virtual Classroom – CSE Faculty (Workshops & interactive sessions)
- CIT Lab (Technical demonstrations & GIS mapping)
- Game Development Lab (Innovation & technology-driven discussions)
- PSTU Innovation Center
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
- Most of our venues are wheelchair accessible.
Will a hybrid conference (in-person and online) be possible?
- Yes, Possible.
What are the nearby or on-site facilities in the venue (e.g. potential accommodations for participants (nearby or on-site), restaurants, etc)?
Accommodation Options:
- On-Site:
- TSC (Teacher-Student Center): Premium rooms available for special guests.
- Krisi Kunzo (University Guest House): Additional rooms for speakers.
- Dormitory (Students Hall): Participants (students) can stay at Dormitory. Separate halls are available for male and females.
- Nearby:
- Patuakhali City & Barishal City: Several rest houses and hotels for participants requiring external accommodation.
Food & Dining:
- TSC Canteen: Available for meals, snacks, and refreshments. While there is no dedicated restaurant on campus, arrangements can be made for catering services during the event. We will purchase these from qualified restaurants.
- We have some renowned restaurants within 5 km of our campus.
Costs
Is the calculation filled in with the costs for venue and catering?
- Venue and Catering:
- Venue cost per day: BDT 4,500 (Total for 2 days = BDT 9,000).
- A separate budget will be required for catering.
- Sponsorship Target
The event aims to raise approximately $9,200 USD through sponsorships, covering expenses for:
- Decoration and printing
- Catering services
- Participant toolkits and swag
- Sound System and Light management
- Accommodation and Transportation
Additional Items
Swags and Printing: Budget allocated for T-shirts, bags, stickers, and conference materials.
Special Feature:
- Sound System and Light management for Gala Night
- Accommodation and Transportation for Kuakata Tour
- Transportation service from Barisal to PSTU campus.
Ticket Costs:
- Registration fee:
- For Students: 500 BDT
- For Officals: 1500 BDT
- For Kuakata Visit:
- For Students: 500 BDT
- For Officals: 1000 BDT
- For Gala Night:
- For Students: 500 BDT
- For Officals: 1000 BDT
Scholarships will be available for marginalized groups and volunteers.
City
What infrastructure does the place have?
City Infrastructure
Patuakhali, known as the Gateway to Kuakata, blends its coastal charm with modern development. Whether by road or water, Patuakhali is well-connected. The nearby Barishal Airport ensures easy access to and from Dhaka, while highways and river routes link the city to major hubs like Barishal and other southern districts. The city is also embracing eco-friendly transport solutions for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Reliable electricity, supported by the Payra Power Plant, along with clean water (Patuakhali WASA) and growing renewable energy initiatives, is making life more convenient for residents. Well-planned neighborhoods like Mahila College Road, New Town, and Sadar Upazila offer comfortable and peaceful living spaces. With Patuakhali Medical College Hospital and access to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital in Barishal, healthcare services are continuously improving to meet the needs of an expanding population. Parks, sports complexes, cultural centers, and shopping malls add to the city’s appeal, making it a great place to live and visit. Patuakhali is also home to stunning natural attractions, including Kuakata Sea Beach, famous for its unique sunrise and sunset views over the Bay of Bengal. Other popular destinations include Fatrar Char (Island), Lebur Char, Kuakata National Park, and various riverside spots, making the district a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Accessibility to Patuakhali City
Reaching Patuakhali is convenient with multiple transport options:
- By Air: The nearby Barishal Airport offers regular flights from Dhaka, ensuring quick access.
- By Road: Well-connected highways link Patuakhali to Dhaka, Barishal, and other major cities, with frequent bus services.
- By Water: Launch and ferry services provide scenic and reliable river transport, enhancing connectivity.
- Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, battery-run easy bikes, and motorbikes make commuting effortless.
- River Transport: The Lohalia and Tentulia Rivers support local trade and goods transportation.
Our university bus will pick up the participants, who will arrive by air and launch.
Transportation
Walking
- Time: 45-60 min
- Route: Follow Barguna or Bhola Road.
Car
- Time: 20-30 min
- Distance: 10-15 km from city center
- Parking: Available on campus.
Bike
- Time: 30-45 min
- Route: Same as car, via Barguna/Bhola Road.
Public Bus
- Time: 30-40 min
- Route: Buses from central terminals to PSTU.
Auto Rickshaw
- Time: 20-30 min
- Route: Direct to PSTU.
Taxi/Ride-sharing
- Time: 20-30 min
- Route: Direct drop to PSTU.
Communication in Patuakhali
Patuakhali offers a reliable communication network:
- Mobile & Internet: Operators like Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink, and Teletalk provide strong coverage, while fiber-optic broadband and mobile data ensure high-speed internet.
- Postal Services: The Patuakhali General Post Office and private couriers like Sundarban, SA Paribahan, SteadFast, RedX, and DHL ensure efficient mail delivery.
- Media & Information: Local and national TV channels, radio stations, and newspapers keep residents informed.
- Digital Services: E-governance allows bill payments and government services to be accessed online.
Safety
Medical and Travel Safety
Medical Facilities:
Patuakhali offers a range of healthcare options, including Patuakhali General Hospital and various private clinics. For more specialized services, private clinics and pharmacies may offer better quality care. It is advisable to have any essential medications in advance, as the availability of certain medicines may vary. In PSTU we have dedicated Health Care center.
Travel Safety:
Patuakhali is generally safe for travelers, with local law enforcement ensuring security in the area. The presence of tourist police further enhances safety. Basic safety precautions, such as securing valuables and avoiding isolated areas at night, should still be followed.
Terrorism and Crime:
Patuakhali is a peaceful region with low crime rates. Local law enforcement is proactive in maintaining safety and addressing potential security concerns. Although there may be minor petty crimes, the area remains relatively free from serious threats like terrorism.
LGBT+ Friendliness:
As a predominantly Muslim country, Bangladesh holds conservative views on LGBT+ rights. While the local population is generally hospitable, it’s essential to respect cultural and religious sensitivities. Public displays of non-heteronormative behavior may be viewed negatively, especially in smaller towns like Patuakhali.
Weather and Season:
In August, Patuakhali remains in the peak of the monsoon season, bringing hot, humid, and rainy weather. Daytime temperatures typically range from 30°C to 33°C (86°F to 91°F), with high humidity making it feel even warmer.
Nighttime temperatures range from 26°C to 28°C (79°F to 82°F), maintaining a warm and humid atmosphere. Rainfall is frequent, with an average of 300-400 mm during the month. Expect occasional heavy showers, thunderstorms, and overcast skies.
It’s advisable to wear light, breathable clothing and carry an umbrella or raincoat to stay comfortable during this wet and humid period.
Travel
National and International Reachability:
Patuakhali is well-connected nationally, but lacks direct international access. It can be reached easily by road, rail, and air from major cities in Bangladesh. For international travelers, reaching Dhaka first and then traveling to Patuakhali is required.
Modes of Transportation:
- Air: Barisal Airport is the nearest airport, with flights connecting to Dhaka's Shahjalal International Airport. From Dhaka, travelers can take a domestic flight or other transport options to Patuakhali.
- Rail: Although Patuakhali does not have its own railway station, nearby cities like Barisal are connected to Dhaka, Khulna, and other locations. From these cities, buses or trains can be taken to Patuakhali.
- Road: Patuakhali is well-connected by road, and buses operate frequently from all over Bangladesh, including major cities like Dhaka, Khulna, and Barisal.
International/National Airports:
- National: Barisal Airport serves as the closest national airport. From here, connections are made via Dhaka’s Shahjalal International Airport.
- International: International flights come into Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. From Dhaka, travelers can take a bus or train to Patuakhali.
Distance and Modes of Transportation from Airports to City/Venue:
- From Barisal Airport to Patuakhali, it is approximately 1.5-2 hours by road.
- From Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka) to Patuakhali, the distance is around 350 km. Travelers can take a bus (approximately 6-8 hours) or a train from Dhaka to Barisal, then proceed by road to Patuakhali.
Affordability of Travel:
Traveling to Patuakhali is generally affordable. Bus travel is the most economical, while train fares vary depending on the class. Flights to Dhaka are typically affordable, and from there, transportation to Patuakhali is reasonably priced for most visitors.
Dates
Proposed Dates: 29th-30th August , 2025
Is the venue available on proper dates?
- Yes
Are there conflicts with other conferences (national/regional SotM, FOSS4G)?
- No
Are there conflicts with national festivals / activities (e.g. festivities, elections, holidays)?
- No
Approximate Timeline:
Call for Participation: May.
Sponsorships Secured: 1st week of June.
Scholarships Awarded: last week of June.
Other special features of the venue
Are there any other special features of the venue that we should consider? For example: administrative support or local sponsors?
- First Day Gala Night
- Second Day Night Kuakata Tour
- Transportation Service through university bus
- 100% accommodation for the participants
Contact
For further information about the venue and plans, feel free to reach out to pstu.ym@gmail.com (Official email of PSTU YouthMappers) or to es.fardinhasan@gmail.com (Md. Fardin Hasan, President, PSTU YouthMappers) or es.jahin@gmail.com (Afia Tahmin Jahin, Vice-President, PSTU YouthMappers).