At IISER Berhampur, we aim to inspire curiosity in science and build meaningful connections with the community. Through interactive workshops, lectures, exhibitions, teacher training, and collaborative programs, the institute actively engages schools, colleges, and the public. Each year, hundreds of participants benefit from these initiatives, which foster a spirit of scientific learning, innovation, and social responsibility.
“Below, you can explore our outreach activities year by year. Click on a year to view the events, programs, and initiatives conducted during that period.”
February 2024
Date: February 17, 2024
Location: IISER Berhampur
Overview:
STREAM (Science To Reach Everyone And Motivate) 2024, held on February 17th, 2024, at IISER Berhampur, was an exciting day of discovery and fun for around 200 school students from across the region nearby permanent campus and Berhampur city. Organized by the institute’s science clubs, the event featured interactive stalls that provided hands-on experiences and showcased various fields of science in an engaging manner. It also offered an immersive learning environment, sparking curiosity and demonstrating the joy of science, leaving the young participants inspired and thrilled by the possibilities of scientific exploration.
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Date: February 28, 2024
Location: Odisha Adarsh Vidyalaya, Karapalli
Overview:
The event commemorated C.V. Raman’s discovery of the Raman effect, highlighting IISER’s commitment to scientific education. Director Prof. Ashok Kumar Ganguli delivered an inspiring address at Odisha Adarsh Vidyalaya, Karapalli, emphasizing the importance of scientific discovery to ignite students
curiosity and enthusiasm for science, fostering an engaging learning environment.
Institute Faculty members were engaged with nearly 200 students in interactive experiments covering Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. A poster session showcased cutting-edge research, with awards presented for outstanding posters in each discipline. The day concluded at IISER Berhampur with a colloquium by Prof. Hirendra Nath Ghosh on Quantum Dots: A New Era in Optoelectronics, iinspiring both students and faculty.
April 2024
Dates: April 4-5, 2024
Overview:
Professor Ashok K. Ganguli led a series of impactful science outreach programs under the theme;Gifts of Science to Society; held at ODM Public School, KV-1 School, DM School, and ODM Global School in Odisha. Aimed at fostering scientific curiosity and literacy, these sessions engaged students through interactive discussions and hands-on demonstrations, highlighting the practical applications of scientific research.
The outreach programs successfully bridged the gap between academic research and societal needs, reinforcing the importance of science in addressing contemporary challenges. Professor Ganguli and his team conducted captivating demonstrations covering fundamental principles and cutting-edge innovations, inspiring students to explore the relevance of science in their daily lives.
Additionally, Dr. Nihar K. Patra, Librarian, facilitated a session on Open Access E-Resources, educating students about freely available educational materials online and distributing informative brochures.
May 2024
Date: May 31, 2024
Location: IISER Berhampur
Overview:
In collaboration with the Center of Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS), Bengaluru, hosted Nano Jatha, a one-day workshop aimed at introducing young minds to the transformative field of nanotechnology. Conducted as part of the Bengaluru Nano initiative, this workshop was designed to inspire scientific curiosity, encourage inquiry, and foster interest in the advancements and potential applications of nanotechnology.
Key Activities:
Over 100 students from various schools and colleges attended the workshop, participating in expert-led lectures and engaging hands-on activities.
Expert lectures and hands-on activities showcasing nanotechnology’s applications.
Discussions on current trends in nanoscience, encouraging student interest in careers in science.
Nano Jatha inspired students to pursue careers in science, particularly nanotechnology, underscoring IISER Berhampur and CeNS’s commitment to fostering scientific curiosity and community engagement.
August 2024
Date: August 23, 2024
Summary:
IISER Berhampur hosted a series of events featuring Dr. B. R. Guruprasad, who discussed India’s Chandrayaan missions. The program fostered interest in astronomy and space exploration, engaging students and faculty.
September 2024
Date: September 15 to October 2, 2024
Summary:
IISER Berhampur continued its commitment to cleanliness through various activities, reinforcing the importance of hygiene and sustainability in academic and local communities.
Date: September 6, 2024
Summary:
Dr. Vivek Tiwari, Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences delivered a lecture at KV Gopalpur on 6th September 2024 on the importance of interdisciplinary knowledge in understanding brain health and disorders from a 21st-century perspective. In today’s world, the complexity of the brain requires a comprehensive approach that combines insights from various scientific fields, Dr. Vivek emphasized the necessity of integrating physics, chemistry, biology, and computational sciences to address brain- related challenges effectively. A key example discussed was Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), a transformative tool in neuroscience that relies on physics for nuclear magnetic resonance, chemistry for understanding brain biochemistry, and biology for interpreting how these elements affect brain function. This interdisciplinary strategy has already led to major advances in diagnosing neurological disorders and developing personalized treatments, and it remains crucial for future breakthroughs in brain research and healthcare.
Date: September 12, 2024
Summary:
Dr. Vyas Akondi, Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Sciences delivered a talk on 12th September 2024, titled ‘Research in Optics, Career Opportunities, and Essential Skills for Science and Technology’ at KV Gopalpur, engaging with students from classes 9, 10, and 12. He provided a brief overview of his research journey, covering topics from applying adaptive optics technology to astronomy, microscopy, ophthalmoscopy, and vision science. Dr. Akondi emphasized the importance of aiming high, balancing passion and financial goals, and developing essential digital and data visualization skills. The talk also highlighted the value of adaptability, collaboration, teamwork, and networking in scientific careers.
Date: September 26, 2024
Summary:
In alignment with the Government of India’s Unnat Bharat Abhiyan initiative, Prof. Ashok K. Ganguli, Director of IISER Berhampur, conducted science outreach sessions on 26th September 2024 at the following odisha govt. high schools located near the permanent IISER campus:
1. Govt. High School, Markandi
2. Balunkeswar High School, Keluapalli
3. Sasanpadar Nodal High School, Sasanpadar
These sessions were highly informative and interactive, and the students actively participated and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. During the event, books and globes were distributed to both the students and the schools. Prof. Ganguli, who is deeply committed to supporting the development of underprivileged communities, led the outreach. The sessions were organized under the coordination of Dr. Nihar K. Patra, Librarian at IISER Berhampur.
October 2024
Date: October 7, 2024
Summary:
The students (86 students of Class XI and XII) of PM SHRI Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Ganjam, visited IISER Berhampur on 7th October 2024 as part of their exposure visit program. During the visit, the students were initially introduced to the various opportunities available to them followed by talks from the Dean Academic Affairs and faculty from Department of Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences and Physical Sciences followed by visit to the research laboratories both at transit and permanent campus.
November 2024
Date: November 18, 2024
Summary:
JNV students visit to research labs under Vigyan Jyoti Phase-V
The students (91 students of Class XI & XII and 09 teachers) of PM SHRI Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh visited IISER Berhampur on 18th November 2024 as part of their exposure visit program. During the visit, the students interacted with the Director, Prof. Ashok Ganguli, who enlightened them on the wonders of science. This was followed by talks from faculty from Department of Biological Sciences, Chemical Sciences and Physical Sciences, giving a brief overview of their research, followed by visit to the research laboratories both at transit and permanent campus.
July 2024
Date: July 23, 2024
Location: IISER Berhampur
Summary:
An awareness session on First Aid Basics and Basic Life Support was conducted during the Five Day Boot camp where 80 teachers from KVS participated and benefitted from the session.
November 2024
Date: November 29, 2024
Location: KATS Govt Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Ankushpur, Ganjam
Summary:
An awareness session on First Aid Basics and Basic Life Support was conducted by the Medical Team, of IISER Berhampur. This event was conducted as part of the post-graduate orientation programme SAMSKARA, for the training of students.
July 2024
Date: July 22-26, 2024
Location: IISER Berhampur
Summary:
From July 22 to 26, 2024, IISER Berhampur hosted an enriching five-day boot camp for KVS Science and Mathematics TGT teachers, aimed at advancing teaching skills in science and mathematics education. The event, sponsored by KVS, was inaugurated by Prof. Ashok K. Ganguli, Director of IISER Berhampur, who underscored the importance of continuous learning to inspire innovative teaching practices.
With 80 participating teachers (40 in each stream), the boot camp featured hands-on learning through advanced educational labs and insightful lectures from IISER faculty on topics like Critical Thinking in the Post-COVID Era, Art in Math &Science, AI Programming, Fundamental Forces of the Universe, and Genetics & Evolution. These sessions encouraged educators to adopt methodologies that foster critical thinking and problem-solving in their classrooms. Participants explored IISER Berhampur’s research labs, delving into physics, chemistry, biology, and earth & environmental sciences. The serene campus setting provided a unique environment for in-depth learning and reflection.
The boot camp successfully empowered educators with fresh perspectives and innovative tools, enhancing their capacity to inspire future generations in science and technology.
November 2024
Date: November 4, 2024
Summary:
On 4th November 2024, Dr. Nihar K. Patra, Librarian, delivered an insightful talk titled “Pathways to Success: Exploring Diverse Careers in Library Science” as part of a career counseling
session organized by the Department of Library & Information Science at Berhampur University. His presentation provided valuable guidance on choosing the right career path within the field of library science. Dr. Patra emphasized the importance of aligning career choices with personal skills and interests, discussing various options such as skill-based roles, infopreneurship, and opportunities in academic, research, and corporate organizations. He highlighted the growing demand for professionals with specialized knowledge and practical skills across these sectors. Through his talk, he encouraged students to explore diverse career pathways that extend beyond traditional roles. Dr. Patra also provided practical tips for identifying strengths and building competencies relevant to each career choice.
Date: November 9, 2024
Summary:
This event was organized as preconference tutorial workshop to the 16th “International Conference on Frontiers of Polymers and Advanced Materials” (ICFPAM-2024), for postgraduate students (60 students) interested in the research area of Polymers and Advanced Materials, by leading experts in this research area.
The Institute has celebrated a week long program on the occasion of National Sports Day from August 18 to August 29, 2023, the birthday of the Hockey Legend Major Dhyan Chand, to commemorate the India's deep- rooted tradition of sports. The event was well attended by student and staff of the Institute, around 120 Students/s
taff participated in the event, medals and trophies were presented to the winners.
Prof. Ashok Kumar Ganguli, Director, IISER Berhampur delivered a talk entitled, "Role of IISER in STI in Odisha".
Prof. Ganguli was speaking at a Regional S20 event titled, "Nurturing Science, Technology and Innovation Ecosystem for Sustainable Development on 24th August 2023. The event was held at KIIT University, Bhubaneshwar.
IISER Berhampur was the partner institute of this event.
A course titled "Leader in me" has been launched in the Sankalp school yard in Raleigh on August 21, 2023. In this event, Professor Ashok Kumar Ganguli, Director of IISER Berhampur, joined as the chief guest and launched the book based on the said course.
On this occasion the students presented the seven effective habits written by the famous American author "Stephen R Covey" through music and dance. To make students aware of these practices, the school teachers explained the importance of each practice. Renowned Educationist and Honorable Chief Guest Professor Ashok Kumar Ganguli emphasized on the importance of developing leadership skills and personal goals among the students. He invited some students on stage and gave a thought provoking dialogue about their personal goals. He encouraged the students towards continuous learning and also advised them to develop leadership skills. The entire program was guided by teacher Falguni Das.
ଆଜି ତା ୨୧/୮/୨୩ ରାଳବ , ବ୍ରହ୍ମପୁର ।
ରାଳଵସ୍ଥିତ ସଙ୍କଳ୍ପ ବିଦ୍ୟାଳୟ ପ୍ରାଙ୍ଗଣରେ "Leader in me" ଶୀର୍ଷକ ଏକ ପାଠ୍ୟକ୍ରମର ଉନ୍ମୋଚନ କରାଯାଇଛି ।ଏହି ଆୟୋଜନରେ ବ୍ରହ୍ମପୁର ଆଇଜରର ନିର୍ଦ୍ଦେଶକ ପ୍ରଫେସର ଅଶୋକ କୁମାର ଗାଙ୍ଗୁଲି ମୁଖ୍ୟ ଅତିଥି ରୂପେ ଯୋଗଦେଇ ଉକ୍ତ ପାଠ୍ୟକ୍ରମର ଆଧାରିତ ପୁସ୍ତକକୁ ଉନ୍ମୋଚନ କରିଥିଲେ । ଏହି ଅବସରରେ
ପ୍ରସିଦ୍ଧ ଆମେରିକୀୟ ଲେଖକ "Stephen R Covey"ଙ୍କ ଦ୍ଵାରା ଲିଖିତ ସାତଟି ପ୍ରଭାବଶାଳୀ ଅଭ୍ୟାସକୁ ଛାତ୍ର ଛାତ୍ରୀମାନେ ସଙ୍ଗୀତ ଓ ନୃତ୍ୟ ମାଧ୍ୟମରେ ଉପସ୍ଥାପନା କରିଥିଲେ । ଛାତ୍ରଛାତ୍ରୀଙ୍କୁ ଏହି ଅଭ୍ୟାସ ବିଷୟରେ ଅବଗତ କରାଇବା ପାଇଁ ବିଦ୍ୟାଳୟର ଶିକ୍ଷକ ଶିକ୍ଷୟିତ୍ରୀମାନେ ପ୍ରତ୍ୟେକ ଅଭ୍ୟାସର ମହତ୍ତ୍ୱକୁ ବର୍ଣ୍ଣନା କରିଥିଲେ । ପ୍ରଖ୍ୟାତ ଶିକ୍ଷାବିତ୍ ତଥା ସମ୍ମାନନୀୟ ମୁଖ୍ୟ ଅତିଥି ପ୍ରଫେସର ଅଶୋକ କୁମାର ଗାଙ୍ଗୁଲି ଛାତ୍ର ଛାତ୍ରୀଙ୍କ ମଧ୍ୟରେ ନେତୃତ୍ୱ ଦକ୍ଷତା ବୃଦ୍ଧି ଏବଂ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଗତ ଲକ୍ଷ୍ୟର ମହତ୍ଵ ଉପରେ ଗୁରୁତ୍ବ ଆରୋପ କରିଥିଲେ।ସେ କେତେକ ଛାତ୍ର ଛାତ୍ରୀଙ୍କୁ ମଞ୍ଚ ଉପରକୁ ନିମନ୍ତ୍ରଣ କରି ତାଙ୍କ ବ୍ୟକ୍ତିଗତ ଲକ୍ଷ୍ୟ ବିଷୟରେ ଏକ ଚିନ୍ତନକାରୀ ସଂଳାପ ଵ୍ୟକ୍ତ କରିଥିଲେ । ସେ ଛାତ୍ର ଛାତ୍ରୀଙ୍କୁ ନିରନ୍ତର ଶିକ୍ଷା ପ୍ରତି ଉତ୍ସାହିତ କରିବା ସହିତ ନେତୃତ୍ୱ ନେଵାର ଦକ୍ଷତାକୁ ବିକଶିତ କରିବାକୁ ଉପଦେଶ ଦେଇଥିଲେ । ସମ୍ପୂର୍ଣ୍ଣ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟକ୍ରମକୁ ଶିକ୍ଷୟିତ୍ରୀ ଫାଲଗୁନୀ ଦାସ ସୂଚାରୁରୂପେ ପରିଚାଳନା କରିଥିଲେ |
August 15, 2023
Institute's New Website was launched on the 15th of August, 2023. The members of the development team were recognized on the occasion of Aug 15, 2023, at the hands of the Director, IISER Berhampur.
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As per the directives of the MoE letter F.No. 9-4/2022-NER dtd. 13.06.2023, IISER Berhampur initiated the YOGA MAHOTSAVAM, a 36-day routine of yoga activities. As part of this event, Harmonious Mass Yoga Demonstrations commenced on May 16, 2023, and continued until the 9th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrated on June 21, 2023. In the YOGA MAHOTSAVAM, various yoga activities were conducted to promote its practice and raise awareness about its positive impact. The event witnessed active participation from numerous students, faculty, and staff members.
The Director addressed the audience emphasizing the importance of incorporating yoga into one's daily routine, the cultural significance of yoga, as well as its positive impact on physical and mental well-being, was emphasized, emphasizing its relevance in both personal and professional aspects of life. The Director expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Aayush, Government of India, for their efforts in popularizing and revitalizing the cultural significance of yoga worldwide.
As part of the International Day of Yoga 2023 and AKAM (Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav), a Tratak Kriya (त्राटक क्रिया) session was organized on June 16, 2023, at IISER Berhampur. Tratak means 'to look' or 'to gaze'. Tratak is the final practice of shatkarmas (षट्कर्म), which aims to make the eyes clear and bright. This practice helps balance the nervous system, relieving nervous tension. It also improves memory, aids in developing concentration, and strengthens willpower.
As a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, IISER Berhampur celebrated World Blood Donor Day 2023 as "Raktdaan Mahotsav" on June 13, 2023. A voluntary blood donation camp was conducted at IISER Berhampur transit campus in collaboration with the Department of Transfusion Medicine, MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur. The camp was inaugurated by Prof. Ashok Kumar Ganguli, Director of IISER Berhampur.
The Director addressing the voluntary blood donors emphasizing the importance of blood donation to society and humanity by highlighting the critical role that blood donors play in saving lives and improving the well-being of individuals in need.
Dr. Asish, a PG Resident from the Department of Transfusion Medicine, MKCG MCH, gave an orientation to the staff and students, briefing about the donor deferral criteria. Donors underwent a screening questionnaire and Hb (hemoglobin) check. Those with an Hb level of more than 12.5 gm% were allowed to donate blood in accordance with national guidelines.
A total of 41 staff and students donated blood during the camp. After the donation, all donors received refreshments, certificates of appreciation, and donor counseling. Additionally, all participants pledged to continue being voluntary non-remunerated blood donors.
As per the directives of the MoE D.O. No. 13-16/2023-AR dated May 26, 2023, and as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and Misslon Life, a Cycling Event was organized at IISER Berhampur on Saturday, June 3, 2023, to commemorate World Bicycle Day. The Cycling Event organized as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and Mission Life aimed to raise awareness about physical activities and combat physical inactivity, which is considered one of the key risk factors for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). NCDs are chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and certain types of cancers, which have a significant impact on public health. The participation in the Cycle Rally was open to the Institute's students, faculty, and staff showcased their support for promoting physical activities and raising awareness about the impact of physical inactivity on public health.
