Science in action at CSIR labs for school students
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From learning about drug discovery to engaging in interactive games and toxicity tests, students experienced what it is like to be a scientist. They were taught by scientists at CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), and Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (IITR).
At CDRI, students attended a motivational lecture on "Why We Study Science" to help them understand the relevance of science in their daily lives and how it influences everything— from the technology they use to the environment they live in.
Highlighting the impact of scientific thinking on progress and innovation, the lecture encouraged students to view science not just as a subject in school, but as a powerful tool for shaping a better future.
"We got hands-on experience of scientific experimentation. It was great to interact with scientists and see them conducting research on rats," said a class VI student Aishwarya Singh.
"This was the first time my classmate and I got exposure to such research infrastructure, experienced cutting-edge scientific facilities, and learned about inspiring connections with real-world science," the student added.
Similar activities, like making art from dehydrated flowers and visiting the herbarium and labs, were held at NBRI. At IITR, students learned about environmental toxicity studies on aquatic and terrestrial organisms, as well as analytical and clinical chemistry testing.
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