Bigyan Inc.

Bigyan Inc. is a U.S. 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2022, dedicated to enriching science education in the mother language, primarily targeting the global Bengali-speaking population. The name "Bigyan" (বিজ্ঞান) means "science" in Bengali.

History

Bigyan's initiative began on February 28, 2014, which is celebrated as the National Science Day of India. The organization was founded by scientists and science enthusiasts based in India and the United States. Initially, it operated as an informal network before registering as a non-profit in the U.S.

Activities

Bigyan's core activities include creating and disseminating science content in Bengali, fostering a network of scientists, educators, and students, and supporting grassroots organizations to promote a scientific worldview. Key programs include:

• Content Creation: Bigyan publishes articles on its platform, primarily written by practicing scientists for high school level students. The content spans textbook subjects like physics, mathematics, and biology, as well as advanced topics such as machine learning and mental health research.
• Community Engagement: Bigyan partners with organizations like the Contai Science Academy to spread popular science at the grassroots level through print magazines and other media.
• Education Outreach: Bigyan aims to deliver high-quality educational materials, such as wall magazines, to high schools and colleges, particularly in West Bengal.

Operations

As a non-profit organization, Bigyan's operations are supported by donations, which are tax-exempt in the United States. Donations are used for content creation, partnering with local NGOs for educational outreach, website maintenance, and subsidizing print editions of science publications.

Impact

Bigyan's online platform has attracted a significant following, with over 1.5 million page views and a presence in countries including India, Bangladesh, and the U.S. The organization's social media presence includes a Facebook page with thousands of followers and a YouTube channel featuring live discussions with scientists in Bengali.

Mission

Bigyan's mission is to make science accessible in the mother tongue, fostering a love for science and critical thinking among students and the broader community. By bridging the gap between scientists and the general public, Bigyan contributes to the popularization of science in the Bengali language and supports the next generation of scientifically informed citizens.