Kuvempu University vice-chancellor Sharath Ananthamurthy inaugurating Rising Star, The Hindu in School Science Festival, and Ramanujam Spark Quest at Shivamogga on December 6.
| Photo Credit: S.K. Dinesh
The Hindu in School Science Festival and Ramanujam Spark Quest received an impressive response on December 6. Nearly 300 students from various schools exhibited 150 projects based on different concepts.
The students arrived early at the venue, carrying their models. They were thrilled to explain their concepts and the ideas which can impact society for the better if implemented on a larger scale.
A majority of the concepts were related to renewable energy, waste management, and security systems, and a few students participated with laptops to exhibit their creativity supported by AI tools. A team of four judges evaluated the projects, and they had a tough time finalising the winners.
‘Ask questions’
Kuvempu University vice-chancellor Sharath Ananthamurthy inaugurated the event. Addressing the gathering, he went down memory lane. Recalling his schooldays when he took part in such exhibitions, he said the activity was filled with fun and learning. “The science exhibition activity evokes curiosity. I am happy to see many students who have come up with projects related to renewable energy,” he expressed.
He suggested students develop interest in observing things happening around and try to find answers to why certain particles behave in a particular way. As a student, he said, he was curious to know why sand particles form a pyramid shape. “Not all objects form that conical shape. Later, I found that it is an unanswered question. I wish students would develop the skill to ask questions,” he said.
B. Pushparaj, Academic Director of Excellent Moodubidire, called upon the students to develop the projects they exhibited for the fest after the event too. “Work on how to improvise and develop your project. Also look for add-ons for it. Ensure your project becomes one of the best,” he suggested.
He also stated that AI tools should be used in such a way that they complement students’ creativity.
Additional Superintendent of Police S. Ramesh Kumar, appreciating the programme organised by The Hindu, said such events offer platforms for schoolchildren to exhibit their talent. He appealed to students’ development skills to present their ideas in an attractive manner.
Talking about his profession, he said people need not be afraid of the police. “We are meant to protect society. If you find a traffic policeman, you can greet him. He will also respond to you. Let us all join hands to maintain peace,” he said.
D.R. Praneeth Reddy and Sidhanth B. Pruthvi of Podar International School-2 stood first, the cash prize for which was ₹5,000. Shishir V. Akki and Vaibhavi R. Annigeri of National Public School won second prize and received ₹3,000 in cash. R.V. Shashank and Vihas K. Gowda of Podar International School won the third prize and received ₹2,000 in cash.
Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh, professor of entomology, M.P. Pavan Kumar, associate professor of Jawaharlal Nehru National College of Engineering, Damodar Reddy, a biology lecturer, and S. Pradeep, a mathematics lecturer, were the judges for the exhibition.
Spark Quest
Around 300 students from classes 6 to 10 participated in the Ramanujam Spark Quest. Five students from each class won prizes. Those who won cash prizes are Miraya A.S., Vihaan Anil Shetty, Arjun D.A., Anarghya A. Shetty, Yashaswi B. Tessihalli, Dharshath M.S., Vaishnavi V. Bhat, Vedanth Nayak B., Abhikshith S. Channa, Mukool R.B., Ullas V. Janthikolalu, Haripriya M., Vipula G.S., Dharini R. Holla, and Shivarai M.B.
Excellent Moodubidire is the title sponsor for the event, and MadhuShree products — RAAGIDAY biscuits — is the snack partner.
Published – December 06, 2025 09:06 pm IST
