The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Berhampur commemorated a significant milestone this Sunday, celebrating a decade of its establishment with a vibrant mix of academic, outreach, and cultural events.
A Decade Dedicated to Scientific Excellence
Marking its 10th foundation day, the premier institute reflected on a journey committed to shaping the future of science in India. The director of IISER Berhampur, A K Ganguli, addressed the gathering, reinforcing the institute's core vision. He emphasized the unwavering focus on fostering interdisciplinary research, innovation, and inclusive scientific education.
"The 10th foundation day celebrations not only marked a decade of academic excellence but also reaffirmed the institute's commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, nurturing talent, and contributing meaningfully to national development," Ganguli stated. His words underscored the institute's role in building a robust scientific ecosystem.
Collaboration Highlighted as Key to Progress
The event saw participation from dignitaries of other leading institutions, who stressed the importance of synergistic efforts. S Karmalkar, the director of IIT Bhubaneswar, and A Biswas, the executive director of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, shared the stage. They collectively emphasized the critical need for collaboration among premier institutes to drive advancements in the interconnected fields of science, technology, and healthcare.
This call for partnership highlights a growing trend in India's academic landscape, where breaking silos is seen as essential for tackling complex challenges and accelerating innovation.
A Cultural Finale Celebrating Odisha's Heritage
The day's formal celebrations culminated in a rich cultural programme that beautifully showcased the local artistry of Odisha. The evening was graced by a performance from the renowned Padma Shri awardee Aruna Mohanty, alongside talented artists from the Odisha Dance Academy.
The cultural segment provided a perfect finale, blending academic rigor with artistic expression. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the entire IISER Berhampur community, including faculty members, students, staff, and invited guests, who came together to celebrate this proud moment in the institute's history.
As IISER Berhampur steps into its second decade, the foundation day festivities served as both a retrospective of its achievements and a reaffirmation of its mission to be a cornerstone of scientific learning and discovery in India.