Report Muzamil Yaqoob
The Department of Bioresources at the University of Kashmir, led by Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir, is hosting a 5-day INSPIRE Internship Science Camp from August 27th to 31st, 2024. This event aligns with the university's mission to extend its educational and societal outreach, in accordance with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The camp, which is sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, provides a unique platform for students from across the Kashmir valley to engage with some of the brightest minds in the scientific community. Held at the University of Kashmir, this science camp brings together a diverse group of national-level mentors, scientists, experts, and peers, who will deliver insightful lectures and lead discussions in their respective fields. These fields span a wide range of disciplines, including Life and Health Sciences, Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Earth Sciences. The camp is designed to ignite young minds by offering them an opportunity to interact directly with global leaders in science. These interactions are intended to inspire the participating
students to pursue careers in science and research, encouraging them to think critically and creatively about scientific problems. The event was inaugurated at the historic Gandhi Bhawan within the University of Kashmir, marking the beginning of what promises to be an enriching and intellectually stimulating experience for all participants. Over the course of the five days, students will be exposed to cutting-edge scientific research and innovation, equipping them with knowledge and insights that could shape their academic and professional futures.
At the commencement of the 5-day INSPIRE Internship Science Camp, the organizing secretary, Prof. Dr. Manzoor A. Mir, who is also the Head of the Department of Bioresources at the University of Kashmir, delivered an engaging welcome address. He graciously acknowledged the presence of the distinguished guests, including the Patron of the event, Honourable Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, who has been a guiding force in academic and research excellence at the university. The Chief Guest, Shri Saurabh Bhagat IAS, Commissioner Secretary of JKST&IC, was also welcomed, along with the Convener of the event, Dean Research Prof. Mohd. Sultan Bhat, who has significantly
contributed to advancing research initiatives at the university. The Co-convener, Registrar Prof. Naseer Iqbal, was recognized for his pivotal role in administration, and the Guest of Honor, Dr. Tassaduq Hussain Mir, Director of School Education Kashmir, was appreciated for his efforts in shaping the educational landscape of the region.
The event, meticulously hosted and coordinated by Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir, set the tone for a week of intellectual engagement and scientific exploration. Dr. Mir officially inaugurated the session with an insightful speech, where he underscored the importance of the INSPIRE Internship Science Camp. He elaborated on the strategic vision behind the camp, which is organized for the top-performing 11th-grade students from Jammu & Kashmir, specifically those who have achieved the highest ranks in their 10th-grade board examinations, placing them in the top 1% statewide.
Dr. Mir articulated the core mission of the DST INSPIRE program, highlighting its critical role in nurturing a spirit of innovation among young students. He emphasized that this camp provides a rare and valuable opportunity for students to engage in direct dialogue with some of the nation's most esteemed scientists and mentors. This interaction is designed not only to inspire the students but also to foster a deeper understanding of the scientific challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
In his address, Dr. Mir stressed the importance of innovation in tackling some of the most pressing issues facing society today, particularly in the areas of science, Health, and Agriculture. He pointed out that the DST INSPIRE program is uniquely positioned to motivate students to think creatively and to apply their knowledge in ways that can make a tangible difference. Dr. Mir encouraged the students to approach these challenges with perseverance and ingenuity, utilizing existing resources wisely while also seeking to develop new solutions that can contribute to the sustainable development of society.
By bringing together a diverse group of students and mentors, the INSPIRE Internship Science Camp aims to cultivate a new generation of thinkers and innovators who are equipped to address the complex problems of the future. Dr. Mir's address set an inspiring tone for the camp, reflecting his deep commitment to education, research, and the empowerment of young minds in the region.
The inaugural session of the INSPIRE Internship Science Camp commenced with an insightful address by Dr. Tassaduq Hussain Mir, Director of School Education Kashmir. He began by expressing his gratitude to the organizing secretary, Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir, for orchestrating such a significant event that holds great promise for the future of science education in the region. Dr. Tassaduq highlighted the importance of the INSPIRE Camp and warmly welcomed all the young students participating in the camp. In his speech, Dr. Tassaduq placed special emphasis on encouraging female students to step forward and actively engage in the field of science, challenging them to compete confidently alongside their male peers. He underscored the importance of pursuing science as a career, motivating the students to explore the vast opportunities that lie within the scientific domain.
Following Dr. Tassaduq's address, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar of the University of Kashmir, took the stage to commend Dr. Manzoor A. Mir for his outstanding contributions to research and other university activities. Prof. Iqbal spoke about the DST INSPIRE Program, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping the minds of young scientists and driving them towards innovation in science and technology. He shared personal experiences that were both interesting and motivating, illustrating the critical importance of such camps in inspiring the next generation of scientists. Prof. Iqbal also highlighted the crucial role of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education in nation-building, urging students to embrace these fields as they pursue their academic and professional journeys.
Continuing the session, Worthy Dean of Research, Prof. Mohd. Sultan Bhat, delivered an inspiring talk that focused on the active involvement of young students and scholars in scientific endeavors. He shared motivational stories about Nobel Prize laureates, using their journeys as examples to encourage the young audience to nurture their scientific talents and aspirations. Prof. Bhat's anecdotes served as a reminder of the potential within each student to achieve greatness through dedication to science and research.
During the inaugural session of the INSPIRE Internship Science Camp, Chief Guest Shri Saurabh Bhagat IAS, Commissioner Secretary of JKST&IC, expressed his delight at being in the midst of a hall filled with eager young minds. He shared his optimism about the future, inspired by the students attending the program and the vibrant academic atmosphere on campus. Shri Bhagat emphasized that the ultimate goal of science and engineering is to enhance the quality of human life, a responsibility that the students will carry forward into the future. He congratulated Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir for consistently organizing such impactful events, noting that this was his fourth visit to the Department of Bioresources in connection with a conference. Shri Bhagat placed special emphasis on the INSPIRE Scheme, discussing the various domains associated with it and how it serves as a catalyst for nurturing innovation and scientific inquiry among young students. He also shared memorable and inspiring moments from his career, encouraging the audience to pursue science and innovation. Furthermore, he highlighted the contributions of eminent scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam to science and technology, using his legacy as a source of inspiration for the students.
The Chief Guest of the inaugural session, Honorable Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan, addressed the young students with a powerful message about the essence of science. She emphasized that science is fundamentally about making connections, and within these connections lies immense power. Science not only produces new technologies but also ensures their sustainability for a better quality of life. Prof. Khan encouraged the students to embrace reading, stressing its importance in developing cognitive abilities, vocabulary, and language skills. Prof. Khan also congratulated Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir for his consistent efforts in organizing such inspiring events, which have had a profound impact on shaping young minds toward developing a scientific temperament. She praised Dr. Mir's contributions in research, administration, and leadership, recognizing the positive influence he has had on the academic community.
A pivotal moment of the INSPIRE Internship Science Camp was the unveiling of the Breast Cancer Awareness Website, a groundbreaking initiative led by Dr. Manzoor Ahmad Mir. This event, celebrated alongside esteemed guests, marks a significant achievement as the University of Kashmir embarks on hosting the first International J&K Breast Cancer Awareness Conference, set to take place from October 7-9, 2024. The website launch symbolizes a major step forward in raising awareness and providing critical information on breast cancer, a cause that is increasingly vital in both local and global contexts.
In addition to this milestone, the session also featured the launch of a book authored by Dr. Manzoor A. Mir, which further underscores his unwavering dedication to the advancement of scientific knowledge and public health awareness. The book, which is expected to serve as a valuable resource for both students and professionals, reflects Dr. Mir's deep commitment to education and research. The dignitaries present at the event were effusive in their praise for Dr. Mir, acknowledging his visionary leadership in organizing the Breast Cancer Awareness Conference. They recognized the importance of his efforts in fostering a culture of scientific inquiry and health consciousness within the region. Dr. Mir was encouraged to continue his pioneering work, with many noting that his initiatives not only contribute to the global scientific community but also provide crucial opportunities for young researchers in the Kashmir Valley to engage with cutting-edge scientific and medical issues.
This moment was seen as a testament to Dr. Mir's holistic approach to education, research, and community engagement, as he continues to lead projects that have a meaningful impact on both local society and the broader scientific world. The event underscored the University of Kashmir's growing role as a hub for significant academic and public health initiatives. The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Nisar Ahmad Wani. He expressed his gratitude to all the dignitaries, guests, faculty members, deans, heads of departments, scholars, and students for their active and meaningful participation in the camp.
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