In an era where home work and projects are so unrealistic that most of the time, the parents actually work it and send it to school, this was an event completely run by young kids. From an MC to interviewers to preparing questions for the scientists. It had all the childish touches but also a reminder of what these young champions might become one day. Close to hundred parents and their kids were part of this interactive session with Scientists that was held yesterday, 9th April, 2017 at the Chamber Hall, Avinashi Road.
As the event commenced, a kid welcomed the guests for the day Mr. Atul Jain, Scientist In-Charge, Cosmic Ray Laboratory, Dr. Vijayaraghavan Vishwanathan, Former Scientist at CERN, Co-Founder & CEO, Tiino Techmations Pvt Ltd and Mrs. Shubashree Desikan, Senior Assistant Editor/Science Writer, The Hindu.
All the Chief Guests' shared their childhood memories and their journey as a school student to a scientist. Kids were flabbergasted, when Dr. Vijaya Raghavan revealed about his 100% attendance in his College days and his book reading habits during college days. The parents and kids gave a big round of applause when Dr. Vijaya Raghavan said he did not take a penny from his parents after his 1st year of College, as his hard work got him enough scholarships to pursue his under graduation and post graduation.
Dr. Shubashree also inspired the kids when she shared her passion for physics and mathematics and also advised the Kids to understand the practical applicability of mathematics and science. She also shared that a great career awaits to the Kids who choose to pursue their career in Mathematics.
Dr. Atul Jain shared one of his Childhood memory, which indeed was very thought-provoking and made the kids understand why they should abide parents advice. 'It was a colorful Diwali day and I was so excited to visit my hometown and celebrate the festival of lights with my parents. But my happiness did last only for a short span. I was bewildered when my father asked me to attend a 'sky gazing' event as it was a solar eclipse day.
With loads of disappointment, I attended the session. Is solar eclipse more important than Diwali, was the million dollar question that puzzled my heart all the way. But once, I reached the place, I understood the reason why my father wanted me to skip Diwali and witness the Solar Eclipse. It was entirely an indescribable feeling to witness the solar eclipse amidst well-learned scientists.
I remember my father saying, every year Diwali is the same but not the eclipse. How true, isn't it! So students, never ignore your parents advice as their love for you is unconditional and believe they always suggest the best for you' said Scientist Atul Jain.
The kids had a lot to take back from the experiences shared by the Scientists. And, just not for the kids, it was a whole new experience for the Scientists as well. As unlike, speaking in some international conference, seminar or a paper presentation, the Scientists thoroughly enjoyed the session with the kids by answering to their thoughtful and amateurish questions.
Kids raised several questions like what do they do at their research centres? how to ascertain facts about astronomy, as many fake forwards throng the social medias? How do they feel if their long-time project fails? Need for sustainable farming? and of course, the usual one 'The secret of Success'?
With so much attention and patience, the Scientists clarified all the queries and also ensured if the kids really understood it. The parents also raised a few questions regarding career opportunities in the field of astronomy and how to groom their children to be successful.
Speaking on this, Arumugam, Co-Founder of Mango Education shared that, 'This was a much-awaited event for all of us at Mango Education and we were glad that the Scientists agreed to be a part of this event. It was completely a kids event so we let them handle the event from A to Z.
Allowing kids to conduct an event, not only eliminates stage fear but also creates a sense of inclusiveness and emboldens them. As requested by parents and of course the kids, we at Mango Education are planning to conduct such events more frequently and we thank the parents for their over-whelming support'.
Sure, the day turned out to be a fulfilling and fun-filled day for the kids. And definitely, as these kids turn out to be tomorrow's scientists, this day will remain nostalgic in their memories.
