India: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched a special programfor School Children called “Young Scientist Programme” (YUva VIgyani KAryakram) in tune with the Indian Government’s vision of “Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan”.
The aim of the program is to impart basic knowledge on Space Technology, Space Science and Space Applications to the younger ones with the intent of arousing their interest in the emerging areas of Space activities. According to ISRO, the program is aimed at creating awareness amongst the youngsters who are the future building blocks of our Nation. This will further help them to appreciate what they are being taught in the school and its real application in Space Science & Technology. ISRO has chalked out this program to “Catch them young”.
The duration of the program is two weeks and will be held during summer holidays and the schedule will include invited talks, experience sharing by the eminent scientists, facility and lab visits, exclusive sessions for discussions with experts, practical and feedback sessions.
It is proposed to select 3 students each from each State/ Union Territory to participate in this program every year covering CBSE, ICSE and State syllabus. Those who have finished 8th standard and currently studying in 9th standard will be eligible for the program.
The selection is based on the academic performance and extracurricular activities, which is clearly mentioned in the selection criteria already circulated to Chief Secretaries of States/ Administrators of UTs. Students belong to the rural area have been given special weightage in the selection criteria.
The selected students will be accommodated in ISRO guest houses/hostels. Expenditure towards the travel of student (II AC fare by train from nearest Rly Station to the reporting centre and back), course material, lodging and boarding etc., during the entire course will be borne by ISRO. II AC fare will also be provided to one guardian/parent for drop and pick up of student from the reporting centre.
The last date for the submission of applications is 3rd April 2019.
