BHUBANESWAR: Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, organised a state-level science outreach and awareness program here and seven districts of Odisha.
More than 3000 school and college students participated in the event aimed at exposing the younger students with exciting opportunities in scientific research and its implications on the society and human welfare.
This massive event was organised in partnership with MPC autonomous collage at Baripada, N.C. Autonomous College at Jajpur, Dhenkanal Autonomous College at Dhenkanal, Udayanath Autonomous College of Science and Technology at Adaspur, Maa Jhadeswari College, at Dhama, Sambalpur, Kamgaon Junior College, Kamgaon, Bargarh and Rayagada Autonomous College at Rayagada as well as at Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar.
Minister for school and mass education and science and Technology Badri Narayan Patra while inaugurating the outreach program complemented the effort of ILS and other colleges for this unique initiative and mentioned that in the coming days state government will support such initiatives. He also mentioned that the state government is planning to establish science centers at every district to attract talents in science as this will lead to build a Scientific Literate Society.
Ajay Parida, Director, ILS in his opening remarks highlighted the significant progress in the field of science and technology that has contributed towards betterment of human life and society. He urged the participants to get involved in scientific research and innovations for addressing challenges of food, nutrition, environment, energy and health security of the nation.
Ashok Das, Vice Chairman, State Higher education Council and Sanghamitra Pati, Director, RMRC spoke on the occasion and encouraged students to be inquisitive and innovative in their thinking and ensuring effective communication and understanding of science and technology.
In each of the selected location debate, quiz and essay competitions were organised on the theme of ‘Science for the People and People for the Science’. The participants at ILS visited the laboratory and given exposures to advanced instruments and equipment, and provided hands on training. Students expressed immense satisfaction and happiness with the type of lectures and with their interaction with the experts.