Andhra University hosts Science Conclave on Teachers’ Day

Andhra University organized a Science Conclave today to mark Teachers’ Day, in collaboration with the Academy for Science, Technology and Communication (ASTC-Hyderabad). The event, part of the university’s centenary celebrations, was held at the AU Convention Center on Beach Road under the theme “Science and Technology Frontiers for Swarnandhra and Vikasit Bharat-2047.” The program began with a lamp-lighting ceremony and garlanding of a portrait of Bharat Ratna Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, former President of India and Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University.

Padma Shri awardee Acharya Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay, Director of the Indian Statistical Institute, praised Dr. Radhakrishnan’s contributions. She highlighted the importance of quality education in achieving Swarnandhra and Vikasit Bharat 2047. She also urged students to balance technology use with collaborative discussions to foster innovation.

Dr. Mrityunjay Mahapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department, addressed climate change challenges, including rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns. He emphasized the use of AI and advanced technology to monitor environmental changes.

Dr. Prakash Chauhan, Director of the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), spoke on the role of space technology in national development. He highlighted its applications in agriculture, Earth observation, and the importance of research and startups in advancing India’s space capabilities.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. G.P. Rajasekhar recalled Dr. Radhakrishnan’s legacy, encouraged research-driven innovation, and noted the university’s rise in NIRF rankings. The conclave, presided over by ASTC Chairman Dr. C.H. Mohan Rao, featured lectures by leading experts in education, technology, and public health.

Prof. B.S. Murthy, Director of IIT Hyderabad, spoke on the “Role of Higher Education Institutions in Realizing Vikasit Bharat,” while Dr. D. Raghunatha Rao, former Director of Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital, addressed “Artificial Intelligence for Public Health.”

In addition, Acharya G. Narahari Sastry, former Director of IIT Hyderabad, delivered insights on “Technology in New Drug Discovery,” and Dr. V.M. Chowdhury, Group Director of the National Remote Sensing Centre, discussed “Using Earth Observation Data for Digital Agriculture in India.” These lectures highlighted the intersection of research, innovation, and practical applications in shaping India’s future.

During the event, Andhra University and NRSC Hyderabad signed two MoUs—one for joint research on coastal and Bay of Bengal studies with Rs. 1.58 crore in equipment support, and another for student capacity-building projects. Guests were felicitated, and a plantation drive was conducted. The program was attended by university officials, faculty, and students.