INSPIRE camp: Mandi varsity’s 5-day pursuit of scientific inquisitiveness
Dipender Manta
Tribune News Service
Mandi, August 11
The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) Internship Camp, sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, concluded yesterday at Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi.
Held from August 6 to 10, the camp brought together schoolchildren for an enriching five-day experience aimed at fostering a passion for science.
Himachal Pradesh Technical University, Hamirpur, Vice-Chancellor Shashi Kumar Dhiman was the chief guest at the event.
The Co-ordinator of INSPIRE Internship Camp, DST (New Delhi), Dr Tamanna Arora, was the guest of honour.
Sardar Patel University Vice-Chancellor Lalit Kumar Awasthi chaired the valedictory function.
INSPIRE Internship Camp Principal Investigator and Dean (Student Welfare) Rajesh Sharma welcomed the guests and presented a comprehensive report of the various activities conducted during the camp.
In his address, Awasthi said the primary goal of the INSPIRE initiative was to ignite a passion for scientific inquiry among the youth, and promote an interest in science from an early age.
He emphasised the need to nurture curiosity, and urged students to engage deeply with scientific concepts and stay inquisitive.
He also touched upon the burgeoning field of Artificial Intelligence, encouraging students to be proactive and inquisitive in their learning.
He called for the organisation of more such camps and suggested integrating online modes to involve a broader audience.
Awasthi recommended forming a network of participating students for continued engagement with mentors and progress monitoring.
In his keynote address, Dhiman related scientific principles to everyday life, underscoring the relevance of science.
He demonstrated how science could be both fascinating and practically significant.
Dhiman emphasised the importance of focus and hard work, encouraging students to pursue their higher education with commitment and perseverance.
Dr Arora concluded the event by seeking feedback to improve future INSPIRE camps.
During the closing ceremony, prizes were given to students who excelled in various competitions held during the camp and certificates were distributed to all participants. The Dean (Planning), Dr Saneel Thakur, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone involved in the camp, including the organising committee, for making it a success.
