On January 16, 2025, the Department of Sociology, School of Social Sciences, in collaboration with the Centre for Policy Research, University of Hyderabad (UoH), hosted an intellectually stimulating lecture titled “Popular Perceptions about Science, Scientists and Science Education: Let’s Hear It from the Colts and Fillies.” Delivered by the renowned Sociologist Dr. Pranay K. Swain, Professor at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS), NISER Bhubaneswar. The event shed new light on how students engage with science and its societal dimensions.  Under the guidance of the Prof. E Haribabu (former Pro-Vice-Chancellor) & Prof. G Nagaraju, Head of the Sociology Department, commenced the session with a warm introduction, delineating the exceptional academic journey and interdisciplinary contributions of the speaker.

Dr. Pranay captivated the audience with his exploration of the history of science and science education in India, before diving into his ongoing research. Drawing from surveys among first-year science students at NISER, he revealed fascinating insights into how students perceive science and scientists. Through the innovative “Draw a Scientist” method, he unearthed both the persistence of stereotypes—such as lab coats, glasses, male figures, and light bulbs and the emergence of fresh, unconventional representations shaped by media and popular culture.  The lecture also addressed why students opt for science as a career. The speaker emphasized a range of influencing factors, including passion for specific scientific fields, family influence, job opportunities, and access to funding. He underlined how these factors reflect broader societal attitudes and aspirations linked to science.  The event concluded with an animated discussion that explored critical themes such as the gendered nature of academic disciplines, the role of education systems in shaping scientific imagination, and the shifting dynamics of parental influence and career opportunities. These exchanges added depth to the discourse, emphasizing the multidisciplinary and evolving nature of science in the modern world.

The lecture was graced with the esteemed presence of scholars, including Prof. C. Raghava Reddy and Prof. Satyapriya Rout. Faculty members and students from diverse fields also contributed to the lively interaction, making the session a truly enriching experience.  The talk was a refreshing invitation to reimagine the role of science in society and challenge entrenched stereotypes. The event stood as a testament to the Department of Sociology and the Centre for Policy Research’s dedication to fostering impactful academic discussions, bridging disciplines, and inspiring new ways of thinking about the world of science and its broader cultural significance.