Mysuru: The Hindu in School Science Festival inspires young innovators

The Hindu in School Science Festival and Ramanujam Spark Quest elicited an overwhelming response from students of various schools in Mysuru city as well as Mandya and Chamarajanagar districts.

The annual event, held at the Nanjaraja Bahadur Choultry on Vinoba Road here on January 17, witnessed a vibrant congregation of children driven by a zeal for innovation and a passion to pursue careers in science.

Nearly 750 students from Classes 6 to 10, representing several schools, thronged the venue to compete in the Rising Stars’ Inter-School Science Fest and Math Olympiad.

Inaugurating the festival, Additional Deputy Commissioner P. Shivaraj expressed happiness over the initiative that helps spark scientific temper among children. Platforms like The Hindu in School Science Festival play an important role in igniting innovative thinking and nurturing creativity among students.

He urged participants to make the best use of such opportunities to excel and bring laurels to their schools, teachers and parents. The Additional Deputy Commissioner also went around the hall to witness the students’ models on display.

B. Pushparaj, academic director of Excellent Moodubidire, the title sponsor of the festival, briefly narrated the achievements of students from Excellent Institutions in Moodubidire and explained how they crack competitive examinations such as NEET, besides highlighting the encouragement given to students who aspire for a career in science. Divakar Das of SLV Book Agencies also addressed the gathering. Col. Sathish B.S. (retd) and a team of lecturers from PU colleges, who formed the jury for the science fest, were present.

The Hindu in School Science Festival featured 145 teams from 26 schools, while Ramanujam Spark Quest saw the participation of 450 students from 34 schools. The senior lecturers’ jury evaluated the exhibits. The students’ innovation and creative thinking were evident in the wide range of models and projects showcased at the festival.

Participants enthusiastically explained their concepts to visitors and the judging team, who had a challenging task to select the 10 best models.

The exhibits included models on water quality management, a voice-activated smart dustbin, water conservation techniques, sustainable energy solutions such as converting mechanical energy from passenger footsteps into clean electricity, load-sensor systems to address overcrowding in public transport, and eco-friendly tiles made by blending areca husk with clay among others.

The students, teachers, and parents expressed happiness over the event, appreciating the platform it provided for young minds to develop an interest in science.