To encourage scientific temper and critical thinking among students from a young age, the Department of Bioresources, University of Kashmir (KU), organised a week-long DST-INSPIRE science camp that concluded here on Saturday.
The programme was sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, and J&K Science Technology & Innovation Council (JKST&IC).
Held from August 27 to 31, the camp provided a platform for 150 meritorious students from classes 11 and 12 to engage with prominent scientists and mentors.
Speaking at the inaugural session, KU Vice Chancellor Prof Nilofer Khan, emphasised the importance of such initiatives in building students' capacity through interaction with experts.
"It is important to provide students with exposure to scientific activities, which will enhance their interest and capacity in science," Prof Khan said, emphasising on developing the habit of reading books that "helps as an exercise for our brains".
Commissioner/Secretary to Government, Department of Science and Technology (JKST&IC), Saurabh Bhagat, highlighted the significance of clear career planning for students.
"The Government of India has designed schemes to support students from the age of 16 to 32 years, providing scholarships and opportunities for scientific advancement," he said.
KU Dean Research, Prof M Sultan Bhat, said that human resources are the most valuable of all resources and that the core objective of the camp is "to inspire young minds who will constitute a significant scientific human resource for the country".
"Our university is taking initiatives to bridge the gap between school education and higher education through the introduction of integrated courses across different science streams, allowing students to directly pursue higher education in fields such as Electronics, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Sciences right after their 12th class," he added, urging Commissioner/Secretary Saurabh Bhagat to allocate substantial funds for upgrading science infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir.
KU Registrar, Prof Naseer Iqbal, said that it is crucial to take careers seriously, putting in hardwork and maintaining strong academic performance to lead successfully in any part of the world.
"I propose the establishment of a special cell within the Centre for Career Planning and Counselling (CCPC) at KU, specifically for 11th and 12th-grade students, to guide them in their post-12th academic decisions," he noted.
Director, School Education, Kashmir, Dr Tasadduq Hussain Mir, in his address stressed the need to nurture student talent and provide an environment conducive to their growth.
Head, Department of Bioresources, Dr Manzoor Ahmad Mir, in his welcome address underscored the camp's role in inspiring young minds and rekindling the DST-INSPIRE programme at KU after a gap of several years.
"The DST-INSPIRE programme is crucial in tapping talent at an early age and motivating students towards scientific pursuits," he said.
The event concluded with a valedictory session reiterating the camp's impact on shaping the scientific aspirations of young students.
Certificates were distributed to participants, marking the end of a week filled with learning and inspiration.
The week-long event featured lectures, hands-on training and educational excursions designed to enhance scientific understanding and critical thinking among participants.