Professor Goverdhan Mehta, University Distinguished Professor and Dr Kallam Anji Reddy Chair, School of Chemistry, University of Hyderabad (UoH), interacted with students in a session organized by Junior Science Club (JSC) at the College for Integrated Studies(CIS), UoH on 17th January, 2020.
The topic of interaction was on the various considerations that intellectuals as a community should mull over. The event was expansive in its scope and at the very outset Prof. Mehta emphasized on its multi-faceted nature. He spoke on a variety of issues that served as food for thought for those in attendance. They helped raise several questions on matters of pressing importance for us as human kind as a whole.
The topics of sustainability and a systems approach set the tone of the event, with the need for futuristic vision and the required thoughtfulness touched upon. The pigeon-holing of fields of study and the resultant shackling of progress was an issue spoken. The pressing need for cultural competence in the intellectual sphere was also discussed, as science in its current state is held back by the poor emphasis on the cultural dimensions of the matter. Emerging and intriguing fields of research were mentioned, which helped glimpse the continually evolving nature of modern science, and the excitement (as well as challenges) that exist.
The attendees also got to interact with Prof. Mehta after the session over tea and snacks and further discuss issues which piqued their curiosity. Prof. Mehta expressed his delight over such an opportunity to interact with those who have chosen the path of science.