Need to encourage women in R&D: ASL Director

Tessy Thomas says country has potential to become hub of trained manpower

SPMVV Vice-Chancellor S. Ratna Kumari confers the degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) on Tessy Thomas, Director of Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL), DRDO, during the varsity’s 16th Convocation in Tirupati on Monday. —Photo: K.V. Poornachandra Kumar

Youngsters, irrespective of their fields, should provide both qualitative and quantitative output to the society leading to the nation’s overall economic growth.

India has the potential to become a hub of trained manpower as more than 60 per cent of its population is less than 35 years of age, maintained DRDO's Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) Director Dr. Tessy Thomas.

Delivering her address, during the 16th Convocation of Sri Padmavati Mahila Viswa Vidyalayam (SPMVV), here on Monday, Dr. Tessy Thomas termed research and development (R&D) as one of the most important parameters to rate the development of the country.

She urged the outgoing graduates and students to read books for better analysis and understanding, besides embarking on steps for transforming the textbook knowledge to practical applications.

“It is a great challenge for educational institutions as they act as a catalyst in the growth of quality education in the country. Faculty members need to keep themselves updated with latest developments across the globe along with students, and build up a road map with constant introspection for setting up high standards of competence,” she added.

Pointing out to the low presence/participation of women especially in scientific research institutions, despite their increasing number in education, Dr. Tessy Thomas stressed on the need for encouraging women in the R&D sector.

“Measures such as imparting emotional intelligence programmes, technological exposure know-how opportunities, leadership and management training programmes, child care facilities on campus and others would go a long way,” she said. Dr. Tessy Thomas wished the students on their transition to professionals and advised them excel in whatever field they chose in the future. SPMVV Vice-Chancellor S. Ratna Kumari later conferred the degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) on Dr. Tessy Thomas. As many as 561 students received their degrees, including gold medals and other prizes for outstanding merit. SPMVV Registrar Vijayalakshmi, faculty, parents and students took part.