SMVDU hosts STEM learning event to encourage career awareness in Mathematics for school students under PM-USHA scheme

KATRA: The School of Mathematics, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), Katra, organized an event on “Careers in Mathematics: STEM Learning for Young Minds” under PM-USHA Scheme. This event was attended by 11^th and 12^th standard students of eight schools viz. Lovely HSS Dansal, International DPS, Jammu, Bhartiya Vidya Mandir High School, Nainsu, Brahmrishi Bawra Shanti Vidya Peeth, Udhampur,  DPS Katra, HSS Panthal, Govt. Model Higher Secondary School (Boys), HSS, Katra  and APS Nagrota. It aimed to sensitize young minds about the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and careers available in this area.

At the outset, Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Associate Professor and Head of the School of Mathematics, who served as the convener of the event, welcomed all the dignitaries and participants. He made the audience aware that an inter-school quiz competition and one expert lecture on careers in Mathematics will be conducted during this one day event. In his address, he also informed the audience about the UG/PG programmes  of the School of Mathematics and highlighted the achievements of the school.

In this event, Professor Sunil Kumar Wanchoo, Dean Faculty of Sciences was the Chief Guest of the inaugural ceremony. In his address, he deliberated on career planning. He advised the students that they should choose their career in the field in which they really have interest. He also appreciated the efforts of the School of Mathematics in organizing this event. Professor Balbir Singh, Dean Academic Affairs, shared insights about SMVDU’s academic environment, admission procedures, fellowship opportunities, and facilities available for students.

An expert lecture on “Careers in Mathematics” was delivered by Professor Parmil Kumar, University of Jammu. In his interactive lecture, he discussed various career paths available to school students in the area of Mathematical Sciences. An inter-school quiz competetion was also organized on Mathematics in which eight schools participated. Brahmrishi Bawra Shanti Vidya Peeth secured the First Position, APS Nagrota and Govt. Model Higher Secondary School (Boys), HSS Katra jointly secured the Second Position, and International DPS, Jammu and DPS Katra jointly secured the Third Position.

Participating school students had a tour of the SMVD university in which they explored various facilities like library, engineering workshops, auditorium, computer laboratories and the Schools within the university. Dr. Shafaq Rasool, Associate Dean Academic Affairs (non-engineering) acted as the Chief Guest during the Valedictory function of the event. She congratulated the organizers of the event for successfully organizing such STEM related event for young students.

She also distributed the participation certificates, and trophies for winners. Dr. Abhishek Singh, Associate Professor, School of Mathematics (Coordinator) presented the detailed report of the event, and Dr. Sunny Kumar Sharma, Assistant Professor, School of Mathematics (Coordinator) delivered the vote of thanks. All faculty members of the School of Mathematics were present during the event.