In this engaging interview, Mohammed Attaur Rahman and Labib Abdur Rahman – father and son co-founders of the Rochdale Science Initiative (RSI)—share the remarkable story behind their mission to make science accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for all.
What began as a simple effort to nurture a child’s curiosity has grown into a thriving community movement, reaching thousands and transforming how STEM is experienced across Rochdale.
From Curiosity to Community Impact
The origins of RSI are rooted in a deeply personal journey. Motivated by Labib’s early interest in science, Muhammad sought ways to provide meaningful opportunities that simply weren’t available locally.
With no prior experience or funding, the pair launched the first Rochdale Science Extravaganza in 2017. What they anticipated would be a modest gathering quickly exceeded expectations, drawing over 500 attendees. Since then, the event has expanded year-on-year, now welcoming thousands of visitors and becoming a cornerstone of community engagement in science.
A Mission to Make Science Accessible for All
At the heart of RSI is a clear and powerful mission: to break down barriers to science education.
Rather than expecting communities to seek out opportunities, RSI brings science directly into familiar, accessible spaces—from mosques and town halls to shopping centres. This approach ensures that families from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in STEM, feel welcomed and included.
By prioritising representation, accessibility, and cultural relevance, RSI is helping to reshape perceptions of who science is for—and where it can happen.
Innovative Programmes Driving Engagement
RSI’s impact is driven by a diverse range of creative and community-focused programmes:
Chemistry of Curries
An exciting upcoming pilot project funded by the Royal Society of Chemistry, this initiative explores the science behind cooking—blending cultural relevance with scientific discovery in a way that resonates with local communities.
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme
A recurring programme offering a variety of engaging activities, including hands-on STEM challenges, designed to educate and inspire young people during school holidays.
Inclusive Community Outreach
RSI has gone beyond traditional engagement by:
Supporting homeschooling families with tailored science sessions
Collaborating with the deaf community to improve accessibility in museums and learning environments
These efforts highlight RSI’s commitment to ensuring science is truly inclusive and accessible to everyone.
The Power of Collaboration
A key factor in RSI’s growth has been its strong network of partnerships. Collaborations with leading institutions such as the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, alongside local community groups, have enabled the initiative to expand its reach and deliver high-quality programming.
These partnerships not only bring expertise and resources but also strengthen the connection between academic institutions and the communities they serve.
Looking Ahead: Rochdale Science Extravaganza 2026
The future of RSI continues to look bright. The highly anticipated Rochdale Science Extravaganza 2026 is set to take place on Sunday, 28th June at the Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre.
In addition, a special prelude event will be held on Sunday 21st June at the Rochdale Town Hall, building excitement and momentum ahead of the main event.
Final Thoughts
The story of the Rochdale Science Initiative is a powerful reminder that meaningful change often starts small. Through passion, persistence, and a commitment to inclusivity, Muhammad and Labib have created something truly impactful—bringing science to the heart of their community and inspiring the next generation along the way.
