Top scientists push for innovation, interdisciplinary approach among students
Srinagar : The National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), Chandigarh Extended Region Chapter, in collaboration with the Department of Physics at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar and the Society for the Promotion of Science and Technology in India, organized a Special Lecture Series aimed at fostering scientific curiosity among students and encouraging research-driven careers.
The event attracted enthusiastic participation from students, scholars, and faculty from various institutions in the Valley. The session commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Prince Ahmad Ganai, who underscored the importance of academic interactions in bridging foundational knowledge with advanced research. He highlighted the role of mentorship and exposure in developing a scientific mindset among students. The first lecture was presented by Prof. Ravinder Kumar Kohli, a distinguished ecologist and JC Bose National Fellow, who discussed the significance of pursuing research as a career. He emphasized the vast research potential in India and the need for students to align their interests with national and global scientific demands, advocating for persistence, originality, and interdisciplinary thinking as key traits for success in research. The second lecture was delivered by Prof. K. K. Bhasin, who explored the fascinating aspects of chemistry and its relevance to everyday life and global challenges such as climate change and healthcare innovation. He made complex chemical concepts accessible to students, encouraging them to consider research opportunities in the field. Director of NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, and Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman praised the initiative, noting the importance of interactions with eminent scientists in nurturing innovation and academic excellence. Dr. Vijay Kumar, the program coordinator, also contributed with a talk on sustainable development using hydrogels, emphasizing collaborative learning and a research-oriented mindset among youth. The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony honoring participants from various institutions for their active engagement. Dean Alumni and International Affairs, Prof. M. A. Shah, expressed gratitude to the speakers for their insights, reinforcing the necessity of such lecture series in exposing students to cutting-edge research and inspiring them to think beyond traditional academic boundaries.
