Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 13: The department of chemistry, school of physical sciences, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) organised 'CHEMERGENCE 2024' empowering future chemists - a pre-university fest showcasing the intriguing realm of chemistry on September 12 in LCRI hall. The fest not only highlighted the wonders of chemistry but also underscored the crucial role of basic sciences in shaping modern advancements.
Capt Brijesh Chowta, MP, Dakshina Kannada was the chief guest and inaugurated the programme. Dr Praveen Martis, SJ, vice chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Fr Melwyn Joseph Pinto, rector of St Aloysius Institutions, Fr Prashanth Madtha, Dr Alwyn D’Sa, registrar of the college, Dr Ronald Nazareth, registrar of the University, Sunil Kunder, president, SACAA, Dr Viola Rodrigues, programme coordinator of chemistry, Dr Rachel Nathasha, HOD of chemistry, Hencil Pinto, programme coordinator and Shilpa D’Souza, institutional development officer were on the dais.
Capt Brijesh Chowta was honoured during the programme. He in his speech, reminisced his college days as a NCC student. He remembered all his teachers and classmates. He said that his journey as an Aloysian. Speaking about the need of chemistry, he also said that St Aloysius created chemistry within him. He remembered Jeorge Fernandes, the former MP as his role model. As a NCC Cadet, he had the chance of being a participant during the Republic Day Parade at Rajpath. He encouraged the students to make use of the tremendous potential within them and be a role model for others.
Guest of honour, Fr Prashanth Madtha shared his experience with Capt Brijesh Chowta as his principal.
Dr Praveen Martis in his speech said, explained about CHEMERGENCE and chemistry as part of our life. He spoke on the founder of polymer and poly tetra ethylene and explained how its discovery. He wished the organisers for the wonderful programme.
Rector, Fr Melwin Joseph Pinto, in his speech said, there is a great need of scientists and innovation in science. He spoke about the scholarships available for science students and availability of great jobs. He urged the students to exchange ideas among one another.
Dr Alwyn DSa welcomed the gathering. Jenisha, student of II BSc compered the programme. Hencil Pinto proposed the vote of thanks.
Following the inaugural programme, a series of engaging chemistry events took place throughout the day, including a chem forum, chromo chemistry, chemistry around me, capture the colour, chem music, celebrity scientist, panel game, star of Chemergence, chem play, chemagination, Frolic in the war of reactions, spin change and chemigraphy.
The valedictory programme commenced in Fr LF Rasquinha Hall, LCRI graced by esteemed dignitaries such as Dr Ronald Nazareth, registrar, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) as the president, along with the directors of the science blocks, Dr Ishwara Bhat and Dr Asha Abraham, the head of the department, Dr Rachael Natasha Mary, the programme coordinator of chemistry, Dr Vinola Rodrigues, and the convenor of Chemergence, Hencil Pinto. Dr Rachel delivered the welcome address.
Dr Ishwara Bhat congratulated all participants for their active involvement in the programme, highlighting the value of learning and interaction. He emphasized the significance of continued collaboration in future programmes and encouraged networking among students. Dr Bhat also spoke on the crucial role chemistry plays in everyday life.
In his presidential address, Dr Ronald Nazareth congratulated the teachers from participating colleges for inspiring their students to actively engage in the programme. He encouraged students, emphasizing that consistent daily improvement will help them reach their goals and achieve success. Dr Nazareth highlighted the importance of basic sciences, urging students to pursue their passions. He also underscored the significance of higher education in science and the pivotal role of research in advancing the field. Jyothi Vaz, assistant professor from the dept of chemistry proposed the vote of thanks. Nazreena, student of PG chemistry compered the programme.
Chemergence 2024 concluded with Little Rock Indian School, Brahmavar, emerging as the overall champion, while Expert PU College, Valachil, secured the runner-up position. The chemistry fest saw participation from 30 colleges with around 450 students. The event proved to be an enriching experience, marked by extensive learning, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing throughout the day.