- Science and technology pervade every aspect of human life: Prof Rajat Moona, Director, IITGN
- Reading concepts in school textbooks is one thing, but to do hands-on-experiment and then understand them is a totally different experience: Dr Charli Kaushal, Postdoctoral Research Associate, IITGN
- Prof Nipun Batra, Associate Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, IITGN, explored the various advantages and disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence with real-life examples
NE EDUCATION BUREAU
GANDHINAGAR, FEB 28
The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) celebrated the National Science Day 2025 on February 28, 2025, marking the anniversary of the discovery of the Raman Effect, and promoting a spirit of scientific inquiry across the nation. The event attracted approximately 500 plus school students from Gandhinagar and surrounding areas, infusing the campus with infectious enthusiasm.
In his inaugural address, Prof Rajat Moona, Director, IITGN, emphasised on the importance of science and technology in our daily lives. “Science and technology pervade every aspect of human life. From stitching your clothes to dying them, science is everywhere. We are delighted to welcome you all at IITGN. The time is yours. Enjoy all the experiments and make sure that your questions are answered before you leave this campus!” said Prof Moona.
After his introductory speech, Prof Uttama Lahiri, Professor, Electrical Engineering, IITGN, delivered an insightful presentation on the applications of AI diagnostics and rehabilitation. She particularly focussed on ‘Instrole’, an innovative smart instrumented shoe developed by Prof Lahiri and her team of researchers at IITGN, which can monitor and characterise the walking/running patterns of users, offering new possibilities in healthcare.
Following her lecture, Prof Nipun Batra, Associate Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, IITGN, explored the various advantages and disadvantages of Artificial Intelligence with real-life examples that made the students excited. In addition, Prof Manish Kumar, Associate Professor, Civil Engineering, IITGN, captivated the audience with four short stories that illustrated the importance of adopting a scientific approach to life. Besides focussing on the fundamental principles driving complex phenomena, Prof Kumar also noted the significance of drawing from indigenous knowledge.
A key highlight of the event was the display of around 25 experiments that brought textbook concepts to life. From demonstrating nature’s litmus test to showcasing the piezoelectric effect, these hands-on-activities opened up a magical world of possibilities for the young participants along with the Centre for Creative Learning (CCL), IITGN, which conducted an interactive session cum workshop, illustrating the various intersections of arts, physics, and mathematics.
Dr Charli Kaushal, Postdoctoral Research Associate, IITGN, who led a stall on Plant Developmental Biology and Tissue Culture noted, “These celebrations are vital in showing the younger generation how fun science can be. Reading concepts in school textbooks is one thing, but to do hands-on-experiment and then understand them is a totally different experience.” Adding on to Dr Kaushal’s remarks, a student from Pinnacle Public School, Gandhinagar, said, “Such events help us grasp the concepts we read in school. Seeing so many experiments in action is incredibly exciting. I look forward to coming here again!”
