Chennai: CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre (CSIR-SERC), Chennai, in association with CSIR Chennai Campus (CMC), organised a two-day Jigyasa Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) workshop in Tenkasi district of Tamil Nadu on August 21 and 22.

The programme, aimed at fostering student-scientist interaction, was held at four government higher secondary schools — Neduvayal Achanputhur, Sundarapandiapuram, Sivagurunathapuram and Kadayanallur.

“Jigyasa” is a national-level initiative of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) launched during its Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The programme seeks to strengthen Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) by connecting school students with researchers to extend classroom learning through research-based exposure. It aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of promoting scientific curiosity among the youth.

The workshop featured scientific lectures and hands-on sessions by senior scientists including Dr N Anandavalli, Director of CSIR-SERC; Dr S Parivallal, Chief Scientist; Dr S Maheswaran, Dr D Kalpana from CMC-CECRI, Dr B Arun Sundaram, Dr T Hemalatha, Dr S Sundar Kumar, Shri A K Farvaze Ahmed, Shri V P Anand, and Shri R D Sathish Kumar.

Over 500 students and 30 teachers participated in the sessions, which introduced students to practical aspects of science, engineering and innovation. The programme also highlighted CSIR's efforts to nurture scientific temper and inspire young minds to pursue careers in research and technology.