In a bid to foster a deeper understanding of Earth sciences among young minds, CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (CSIR-NGRI) recently organized a captivating summer camp titled “Exploring Mother Earth”. Aimed at school students aged 9-10, this two-day initiative under CSIR’s outreach program “Jigyasa” proved to be a resounding success.
The summer camp, inaugurated by Dr. Prakash Kumar, Director of CSIR-NGRI, unfolded with an insightful welcome address outlining the pivotal role of Earth sciences and the institute’s contributions in various domains such as groundwater exploration, seismic hazard assessment, and geodynamics research. Dr. Sandeep Gupta, the Nodal Jigyasa, elaborated on the institute’s proactive engagement with educational institutions through the Jigyasa program.
Over the course of two days, 45 enthusiastic students along with ten teachers from five city schools delved into the intricacies of Earth’s formation, its current state, environmental challenges, and the significance of natural resources. The participants were given exclusive access to CSIR-NGRI’s cutting-edge research facilities, including the Open-Air Rock Museum and specialized laboratories focusing on seismology, groundwater studies, thermal analysis, and ground penetrating radar.
Dr. EVSSK Babu, Chief Scientist at CSIR-NGRI, took the students on an enthralling journey through Earth’s history, providing vivid explanations on its evolution and present geological features. The program also featured interactive sessions and a lively quiz conducted by Dr. Tanvi Arora, Co-nodal Jigyasa, which added an element of fun and learning for the young participants.
Throughout the camp, students had the opportunity to engage with esteemed scientists such as Drs. T. Vijay Kumar, Biswajit Mandal, Rajiv Yadav, and Sateesh Chandrapuri, gaining valuable insights into their research and experiences in Earth sciences.
The culmination of the event witnessed an enriching valedictory session where students actively participated in discussions with NGRI researchers, expressing their keen interest in future editions of such educational initiatives. The culmination of the two-day program was marked by a certificate distribution ceremony presided over by Director Dr. Prakash Kumar, acknowledging the participants’ enthusiasm and commitment to learning.
The “Exploring Mother Earth” summer camp by CSIR-NGRI not only served to educate and inspire young minds but also underscored the institute’s dedication to nurturing scientific curiosity among the next generation. Such initiatives play a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications, paving the way for a future generation of informed and passionate scientists.
This event stands as a testament to CSIR-NGRI’s ongoing commitment to scientific outreach and education, reinforcing its role as a leader in Earth sciences research and exploration.
