Chennai: A three-day workshop under the CSIR's flagship JIGYASA initiative is underway at the CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre (CSIR-SERC), Chennai, exclusively for science teachers from Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) schools.

Jointly organised by CSIR-SERC and CSIR Chennai Campus (CMC), the workshop began on June 25 and will continue till June 27, 2025. It aims to enhance scientific temperament among school teachers through exposure to frontier areas in science and technology.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. S. Maheswaran, Senior Principal Scientist and JIGYASA Nodal Co-ordinator, who briefed participants about the objectives of the JIGYASA initiative. Dr. J. Rajasankar, Chief Scientist and Head of the Skill and Human Resource Division, delivered the welcome address.

Presiding over the function, Dr. N. Anandavalli, Director of CSIR-SERC and Coordinating Director of CMC, highlighted the institution's research contributions. She also spoke on nature-inspired engineering designs, bio-inspired technologies, evolution of building structures, and the importance of STEM education for future generations.

Dr. S. Sundar Kumar, Principal Scientist, proposed the vote of thanks.

Following the inauguration, technical sessions commenced on emerging topics such as the Internet of Things (IoT), nanotechnology, and structural health monitoring. Sessions on artificial intelligence, disaster mitigation, and new materials are scheduled over the next two days.

The workshop also includes guided visits to various laboratories at CSIR-SERC and CSIR Madras Complex, offering participants hands-on exposure to live demonstrations.