Garhwal Post Bureau
Ranikhet, 16 Jun: The Science Popularisation Cell of Government PG College, Ranikhet, continues to create meaningful opportunities for students from rural and remote regions by connecting them with contemporary developments in science and research.
Over the past two years, the Cell has emerged as a vibrant platform for scientific outreach through collaborations with leading academic and research organisations. Students have had the opportunity to attend lectures by Nobel Laureates including Prof David J Wineland and Prof Carl E Wieman, gaining first-hand exposure to world-class scientific thought. The Cell also partnered with the Bhaktivedanta Institute, Kolkata, for the internationally acclaimed “Voyage Through the Cosmos” lecture series, which introduced students to exciting topics such as black holes, dark matter, dark energy, and the evolution of the universe.
The Cell has further strengthened scientific learning through workshops on FTIR Spectroscopy, UV-Visible Spectroscopy, and Nanomaterials for Energy Harvesting and Storage in collaboration with MetaChem Academy LLP. These programmes have helped students understand modern analytical techniques and emerging areas of research that are shaping the future of science and technology.
Building on this success, the Science Popularisation Cell and MetaChem Academy LLP are organising a Three-Day Advanced Workshop on Polymer Science from 17–19 June 2026. The workshop will focus on polymer synthesis, characterisation, nanocomposites, and advanced applications of polymeric materials. Sessions will be conducted by Dr Taniya Rose Abraham, Assistant Professor, School of Energy Materials, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala.
Dr Bharat Pandey, Coordinator of the Science Popularisation Cell, says that the objective of the Cell is to ensure that geographical location never becomes a barrier to quality scientific education. “Students in rural and hilly regions possess tremendous talent. Our effort is to bring high-quality scientific learning, expert interactions, and research exposure to their doorstep so that they can compete confidently at national and international levels.”
Dr Nidhi Sharma, Co-Coordinator of the Science Popularisation Cell, highlighted the positive impact of these activities on students. “The enthusiasm shown by students has been remarkable. These programmes are helping them develop scientific thinking, strengthen their research skills, and explore career opportunities that many of them were previously unaware of.”
Speaking about the upcoming workshop, Dr Atul Upreti, Co-Coordinator of the Polymer Science Workshop, said, “Polymer science plays an important role in modern technologies ranging from energy storage to healthcare and advanced materials. This workshop will provide participants with both fundamental knowledge and insights into current research trends.”
Prof Pushpesh Pande, Principal and Patron of the Science Popularisation Cell, appreciated the efforts of the organising team and noted that such initiatives are creating a strong culture of scientific learning within the institution.
With regular interactions with renowned scientists, specialised workshops, and collaborations with reputed organisations, the Science Popularisation Cell is steadily opening new avenues for rural students and helping them become active participants in the rapidly advancing world of science.
