RSC launches month-long teacher training in Kolkata to honour Prafulla Ray
Times of India | 31 July 2025
KOLKATA: A month-long initiative to promote equitable access to practical science education was launched by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)in honour of the 164th birth anniversary of Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, a pioneer of modern chemistry in India,The initiative commenced on June 30, 2025, in collaboration with key academic institutions across Kolkata and will continue throughout July. It aims to empower educators by enhancing their skills and confidence in delivering engaging science lessons, particularly in resource-constrained environments.
A workshop was conducted at CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology (IICB) from June 30 to July 1 for about 40 teachers. Another hands-on workshop was held at Presidency University on July 2 and 3 focussing on fundamental science concepts, common student misconceptions, and strategies for effective classroom teaching.
Presidency University VC Nirmala Narayan Chakraborty, said, "This kind of teachers' training program jointly organised by Royal Society of Chemistry and Chemistry department of Presidency University is the need of the hour. This event will help the teachers to get fresh ideas about teaching science subjects in the school level which I hope will ignite the young minds toward developing the scientific spirit.
"Participants also received practical training on low-cost science experiments that can be implemented even in schools with limited laboratory infrastructure," said head of chemistry department Arnab Halder.
Swetavalli Raghavan, Head of Innovation, Strategy and Government Affairs–External Relationships at RSC India, who is spearheading the engagement series, said, “What better way to celebrate the life and legacy of Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray than by empowering those who shape young minds – our teachers. At the very place he once taught, we rekindle the flame of scientific inquiry and dedication.”These workshops are part of the Yusuf Hamied Inspirational Science Programme, which seeks to enhance the capacity of science educators through innovative and effective teaching practices.