Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 7: The UG and PG departments of Chemistry, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, organized a day-long Chemistry Fest ‘Chem-Mystery, Reaching for the Impossible’ for pre-university students on September 7 in the L F Rasquinha Hall, LCRI Block.
This programme was sponsored by Star College Scheme, department of Biotechnology, government of India. Nandakumar V, chief general manager (Petchem and R&D), MRPL was the chief guest and delivered the keynote address. Fr Dionysius Vaz, rector, St Aloysius Institutions presided over the programme. Fr Dr Praveen Martis, principal
inaugurated the programme. Dr Ronald Nazareth, co-ordinator of Star College Scheme, Dr Richard Gonsalves, director of LCRI Block, and convener Jyothi Simav Vaz were on the dais.
Nandakumar in his address described the scope of Chemistry and its impact in everyday life. He explained the discovery of rubber components and its uses. He spoke about the noble laureates and the invention which changed the life of the world. He briefed the opportunities in the field of research in Chemistry. He also motivated the young minds to invent and discover the mysteries of chemistry. He wished all the participants best of luck.
Rector Fr Dionysius Vaz in his presidential remarks described the importance of Chemistry in day-today life and also in everything by taking the examples of Chapel Paintings. He spoke on the mystery of chemistry and the discovery of all kinds of scientific inventions.
Principal Fr Dr Praveen Martis gave a motivational message to the students by seeking inspiration from life of Michael Faraday, who is a chemist, physicist and a great inspiration for all of us. He narrated how Michael Faraday became a scientist and briefed his inventions. He also said that chemists always think beyond the optimists and pessimists.
Around 380 students from 24 PU Colleges in and around Mangaluru participated in the fest.
Dr Narahari, the registrar, Fr Dr Leo D’Souza, director, Applied Zoology Lab, Dr John E D’Silva, director of Xavier Block and various Deans were present. Relisha Fernandes, II MSc Chemistry compered the programme. Prof Rajgopal Bhat introduced the guest and welcomed the gathering. Programme convener Jyothi Simav Vaz rendered the vote of thanks.
Roque D’Souza, general manager in-charge, (Pellet Plant Unit) KIOCL Ltd, Mangaluru was the chief guest for the valedictory. Prof John Edward D’Silva, director of Xavier Block, presided over the programme. Winners were facilitated by the dignitaries.