Mohali: Amity University Punjab successfully hosted the prestigious DST (Department of Science and Technology) INSPIRE Internship Camp from August 5th to 9th, 2024. This five-day camp aimed at nurturing scientific talent among meritorious students from Class XI and XII, fostering their interest in basic and natural sciences.
The camp commenced on August 5th with an inspiring inauguration ceremony, graced by Chief Guest Prof. A.K. Tripathi, Director of the Indian Institute of Science Education & Research, Mohali. In his keynote address, Prof. Tripathi highlighted the critical role of research in shaping the future. The Vice-Chancellor of Amity University Punjab, Prof. R.K. Kohli, also welcomed the participants, urging them to aspire to become the leading scientific minds of the future.Dr. Anil Kumar Sharma, DST INSPIRe Programme Coordinator also welcomed students and introduced the flow of the 5 day long event plan. Dr. Chanderdeep Tandon ended the inaugural program with a vote of thanks.
Throughout the camp, students were engaged in a series of lectures, hands-on laboratory sessions, and interactive activities. Notable sessions included lectures by Nobel laureates of the science field Prof. Kuldeep K. Bhasin, NASI Senior Scientist; Prof. Javed N. Agrewal, S.S. Bhatnagar Awardee; Dr. Lolitika Mandal, Wellcome Trust DBT India Alliance Fellow; Swami Bhitiharananda Ji Maharaj, Secretary, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Chandigarh; Prof. K. N. Pathak, Former Vice-Chancellor, Panjab University; Prof. Narpinder Singh, J.C. Bose National Fellow; Prof. Ashwani Kumar, FNASc, Wellcome Trust DBT India Alliance Fellow, Sr. Principal Scientist, S. S. Bhatnagar Awardee.
In addition to academic enrichment, the camp featured activities designed to foster teamwork and creativity. Ice-breaking sessions, quizzes, and team-building games ensured that students remained engaged and connected throughout the event. Students were also taken to the Science Museum, Chandigarh where they got an exposure to the wonder and magic of science.
The camp concluded on August 9th with a valedictory session, where students received certificates of participation. The event featured vibrant dance performances, poetry recitals, skits, and more by the students. In closing, Dr. Atul Chauhan, the esteemed Chancellor of Amity University Punjab, congratulated these budding stars in science and wished them success in their future endeavours. The event was a resounding success, leaving students inspired and motivated to pursue careers in science, contributing to the nation's future in research and innovation.