Science Mela in Rajouri: A Celebration of Hands-on Learning and Astronomy
Rajouri witnessed an extraordinary celebration of science and curiosity as a Science Mela was organized at Boys Higher Secondary School, Rajouri. The event featured engaging hands-on activities in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, captivating students with the wonders of science.
Day 1: A Grand Start with Science and Stargazing
The Science Mela kicked off with interactive demonstrations by resource persons from the Jammu & Kashmir Science Communicators Network. These experts engaged students with fascinating experiments, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm. The event gained further significance as the Worthy Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri, Shri Abhishek Sharma (IAS), felicitated the invited science communicators for their dedication to science outreach.
As the day transitioned into night, the excitement grew as a Night Sky Watching Camp was set up. Under the clear skies, students and teachers gathered around four powerful telescopes, eager to explore the celestial wonders. The Moon, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus (visible in its phase) left the students in awe, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Science and Stargazing at Himalayan Educational Mission School
The second day of the program was hosted at Himalayan Educational Mission School, Rajouri, where students engaged in hands-on science experiments. The interactive activities provided a deeper understanding of scientific principles, making learning fun and practical.
As the evening set in, another Night Sky Watching session was conducted. Students were thrilled to observe the Moon craters, Jupiter’s moons, and the vibrant red glow of Mars. The presence of Venus in its phase was a special highlight, showcasing how planets appear differently depending on their position relative to the Sun.
Day 3: Solar Astronomy and Hands-on Science at Another Higher Secondary School
On the third day, the team was invited by Higher Secondary School Chingus Rajouri where we demonstrated science experiments during the morning assembly. The excitement reached its peak when students viewed the Sun through solar glasses, witnessing sunspots for the first time. The collective Wow! from the students perfectly captured their amazement at the wonders of our universe.
Acknowledgments
We express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Muslim Wani, Principal of Government Higher Secondary School, Rajouri, for his dedication to science education and for inviting us to be part of this remarkable event. His support played a crucial role in making this initiative a success.
The Science Mela in Rajouri was not just an event, it was a movement to inspire young minds, ignite curiosity, and make science accessible to all. The hands-on activities and night sky observations left a lasting impact, ensuring that students continue to explore and question the world around them.
Science, after all, is not just about textbooks it is about experiencing the wonders of the universe firsthand!