The Hindu : Front Page : Plan to boost science, maths studies

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Thursday, Jun 19, 2008
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Plan to boost science, maths studies

Amutha Kannan

COIMBATORE: Bharathiar University Vice-Chancellor G. Thiruvasagam has come up with a slew of reform proposals in order to revamp teaching of, and the syllabi for, pure science courses in the university and its affiliated colleges. This is in response to the recommendations on “attracting more students to maths and science” submitted by the National Knowledge Commission to the Prime Minister on May 2.

It has recommended setting up of a ‘Science and Mathematics Mission’ to counter the growing tendency among talented students to pursue studies in areas other than mathematics and basic sciences.

The Mission is expected to draw up a master plan running to five to 10 years for science and mathematics training and research.

Study

The Commission, chaired by Sam Pitroda, undertook a study to identify the causes behind the growing alienation of students from careers in mathematics and pure sciences. It has recommended that apart from massive financial investment, a systematic and innovative approach is needed to make a significant impact on the pattern of choices made by talented youth.

It has emphasised that “foundation in science is needed to create the next generation of competent scientific talent.” Other major recommendations are the need for a better infrastructure and pedagogy, curriculum structural reforms, improved access, re-branding of science careers, massive outreach, greater industry participation, revitalising the teaching profession and revamping the teacher training programmes.

In line with some of these recommendations, the Vice-Chancellor has decided to begin with revamping infrastructure and re-orienting teachers.

With more than 70 per cent of the seats in these subjects lying vacant in colleges, the call of the Commission that the “matter is extremely urgent and requires a rapid implementation” seemed no less relevant.

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