A CORRESPONDENT
DHEKIAJULI: In a remarkable show of commitment to rational thought and scientific awareness, the Sirajuli branch of Elora Science Forum, under Dhekiajuli co-district, one of Assam’s foremost institutions championing scientific temperament and fighting superstition, celebrated its 22nd Foundation Day with a dignified public event at Luit National School on May 15. The event, attended by students, educators, intellectuals, and community members, was themed around ‘Scientific Temperament: A Way of Life.’ The programme commenced with a spirited group rendition of the forum’s theme song by the teaching staff of Luit Jatiya Vidyalaya, setting a tone of unity and purpose. Presided over by Nagen Chandra Baishya, President of the Sirajuli branch, the gathering was introduced and coordinated by Assistant Secretary Dharani Keot, who eloquently traced the genesis and journey of Elora Science Forum and outlined the day’s objectives. Journalist and social worker Sujit Kotoky delivered the keynote address on ‘The Role of Mass Media in Cultivating Scientific Temperament,’ providing a panoramic analysis of how the media can combat misinformation and nurture rationality. Science educator Rana Talukdar contributed a powerful address on the ‘Necessity and Challenges of Fostering a Scientific Mindset,’ highlighting the importance of critical inquiry in education. Adding depth to the programme, retired director of the State Fingerprint Bureau and esteemed thinker Chandan Gayan led a dynamic student interaction session on ‘Constructive Dialogue to Encourage Rational Thinking,’ which was both insightful and engaging.
Special guest Dr Narayan Chetri, retired professor of Cotton University, urged students to rise above dogma and superstition, stressing that science is more than a subject and is a life philosophy. “Scientific thinking begins with curiosity and questioning. It is not just about gadgets, it’s about how we choose to live,” Dr Chetri emphasized.
The event also saw a melodious devotional song by Teacher Tuzar Rava, which added a cultural touch to the proceedings. Thought-provoking addresses were delivered by senior poet and retired teacher Kabindra Kumar Das and retired educator-author Robin Tati, further enriching the intellectual landscape of the event.
A key highlight of the celebration was the formal induction of 35 individuals from the greater Sirajuli area as lifetime members of Elora Science Forum. Certificates were ceremoniously handed over by branch officials, recognizing their commitment to the forum’s vision of promoting science and reason. In a deeply meaningful gesture, the forum also honoured five individuals, namely Nagen Chandra Baishya, Kabindra Kumar Das, Ghanshyam Deka, Geetawali Deka, and Anjali Deka who pledged posthumous body donation for medical education and research. They were presented with official identity cards, marking their invaluable contribution to the advancement of science.
Concluding the event, President Baishya announced that the branch is gearing up to celebrate World Environment Day on June 5 at Borsola Higher Secondary School with a range of educational and environmental activities.
The 22nd Foundation Day of Elora Science Forum was not just a celebration but a reaffirmation of a movement, a movement dedicated to awakening scientific consciousness and challenging ignorance, one mind at a time.
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