37th INSPIRE science camp: unleashing curiosity and creativity at Shoolini University

Solan, July 4

The 37th INSPIRE Science Camp, being organising at Shoolini University, was marked by a series of enriching and engaging activities. Sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, the camp continued to inspire and educate young minds with a blend of quizzes, lectures, and hands-on learning sessions.

The day commenced with an engaging Biology and Mathematics quiz, conducted by Dr. Dhriti Kapoor, Assistant Professor at the School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, and Dr. Neeraj Gandotra, Professor at Shoolini University. The competitive and interactive format of the quizzes energized the students, setting a dynamic tone for the day’s activities.

Following the quiz, Dr. Renu Bhardwaj, Professor and Director of Research at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, delivered the first lecture of the day. Dr. Bhardwaj, a researcher with over 500 publications, five patents, 15 major research projects, and 41 Ph.D. students under her guidance, captivated the audience with her talk on “Phytoremediation: Nature’s Green Clean Technology.” She elucidated the significance of phytoremediation in addressing environmental challenges such as climate change, natural water contamination, and river pollution. Dr. Bhardwaj also emphasised the need for eco-friendly technologies to tackle pollutants without disrupting ecosystems. Her lecture was well-received, with students actively participating in the discussion.

The second lecture, “Algebra and Cryptography,” was presented by Prof. R.K. Sharma, the ConsenSys Blockchain Chair Professor and former Head of the Department of Mathematics at IIT Delhi. Prof. Sharma highlighted the applications of algebra in cryptography and its significance in secure communications and data protection. This intellectually stimulating lecture exposed students to the cutting-edge intersections of mathematics and technology.

The afternoon session was dedicated to hands-on learning during Practical Session II for Life Sciences, led by Dr. Rohit Goyal, Professor at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Students conducted experiments including plant drug extraction techniques like Soxhlet extraction, quantifying phytoconstituents using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), performing disintegration and friability tests for tablets, formulating tablets using a Kambert punching machine, studying the rate of dissolution of solid dosage forms, and observing the common characteristics of animals used in research. These practical exercises provided invaluable hands-on experience, reinforcing theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.

In the camp students also  had the opportunity to participate in various activities. These included Computer-AI Classes led by Dr. Piyush Sewal, a science documentary session managed by Mr. Amit Kumar, indoor sports supervised by Mr. Vikrant Chauhan, and a visit to the Yogananda Library organised by Dr. Radha. Additionally, the screening of the  movie  “12th Fail” provided an inspiring narrative on resilience and determination.