Hyderabad Hosts Unique Science Initiative: 'Street Science Carnival' in Adilabad
Hyderabad, December 12, 2023 - A groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering scientific temper among high school students is set to unfold in Adilabad from December 14 to 16. The 'Street Science Carnival', organized by Jana Vignana Vedika, will provide 500 students from across Telangana an exceptional platform to engage with scientists, explore scientific phenomena, and challenge superstitions through hands-on learning.
The event marks the culmination of a state-wide science initiative which began with the 'Chekumuki' test, a comprehensive science assessment held on November 7, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Sir CV Raman. This test saw participation from nearly 1 million students, with the top performers being invited to the carnival.
Nuthala Ravindar, a school teacher and a senior functionary of Jana Vignana Vedika, emphasized the carnival's goal to dispel myths and superstitions with scientific explanations. "Our aim is to cultivate a scientific mindset among students by demonstrating that superstitions lack foundation," Ravindar stated. He is well-known for his bold experiments, including sleeping in a classroom believed to be haunted to prove the non-existence of ghosts.
Ravindar also highlighted the lack of Indian Nobel laureates in science since Sir CV Raman's win in 1930, underlining the urgent need for enhanced science education. "Superstitions are barriers to progress; science is the path forward," he added.
The carnival will feature debunking sessions of so-called magical powers, with prominent scientists like former CCMD director Ch Mohan Rao and former NIMS director Dasari Prasad Rao participating to promote critical thinking. Activities will include demonstrations where common superstitious objects, like lemons placed on roads, will be shown to be harmless, further reinforcing the message of scientific inquiry over superstition.
This initiative not only aims to educate but also to inspire a new generation of scientists by providing direct interaction with role models in the scientific community. The 'Street Science Carnival' promises to be an enlightening experience, setting a precedent for science education in the region.