In an effort to further promote STEM education in the State and ensure that Mathematics learning is fun for children, Sh. Gurkirat Singh Kotli, Minister for Science & Technology inaugurated the ‘Mathematics Gallery’ at Pushpa Gujral Science City.The gallery supports interactive learning and would be beneficial for general public especially the students of the State.These were the views expressed by the Minister while Inaugurating the “Mathematic Gallery “at Science City Kapurthala. He said that the facilities at Science City are world class and he is impressed with its activities in building scientific temper, dispelling superstitions prevailing in the society and in simplifying complex scientific concepts for general people. “I feel that such facilities in the form of Science Centres should be set up in every district of the state to supplement formal education. To begin with, one more science centre should be set up at Mohali for which I will take up with the Chief Minister for requisite support. I will also take up with the Chief Minister to ensure that as per guidelines of UGC and AICTE Policy (framed under Hon’ble Supreme Court orders), mandatory Environment Education studies should, henceforth, include mandatory visit to Science City as a compulsory part of curriculum of secondary, higher and technical education in Punjab so that each and every student becomes well informed and knowledgeable about Sustainable Development and is abreast with latest skills”.
He said that though Punjab Government organizes visit of Govt. school students to Science City under Mukh Mantri Vigyan Yatra every year, however, a large number of students still remain deprived of this facility.Sh. Dilip Kumar, I,A.S Principal Secretary to Government of Punjab, Science, Technology and Environment, present at this occasion said that innovations are incredible source for the sustainable development of the country in today’s era. Inventions and creative thinking have made many complex and expensive processes simpler and cheaper. Only new discoveries create new technologies and ensure the growth and development of the country. He emphasized that regardless of the sector, the advancement of agriculture, healthcare, communication, etc. depends on science and technology. Pushpa Gujral Science City is working as a beacon not only for Punjab but also for the children and youth of neighbouring states to build their future in the field of Science and Technology.Dr. Neelima Jerath, Director General, Science City thanked the State Govt. and Govt. of India for providing funds for setting up the Mathematics Gallery. The main objective is to help students understand Maths in a fun and interesting way through interactive exhibits and hands on activities.The main attractions of this gallery square wheel cycle, understanding Binary and Decimal numbers system, history & role of zero in Mathematics, Pythagoras theorem, Fractal tree, water clock, roller coaster etc. The gallery will help in developing interest of students towards Mathematics and making career in this field.Apart from Mathematics Gallery, an Electricity Gallery and Spark theatre are soon coming up.Prominent amongst present on the occasion included MLA Sushil kumar Rinku, chairman CII Punjab Bhavdeep sardana.