Tag: Young Scientists

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Goa Inter-School Science Fair 2026 Concludes with Call to Nurture Young Knowledge Creators

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The two-day Goa Inter-School Science Fair 2026 – “Taare Zameen Par” concluded on Saturday evening at Samrat Garden, Margao, reinforcing the message that India’s future depends on empowering students to become creators of knowledge rather than mere consumers of technology.

Organised by the Board of Innovative Education (BIE), Goa, in collaboration with A.J. Academy for Research and Development, the fair was held on January 9 and 10 and witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 200 students representing 10 schools. A total of 54 research-based projects were presented across Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Environmental Sciences, in both individual and group categories. The event attracted more than 500 student visitors, along with researchers, academicians, parents, science activists and members of the public, transforming the venue into a vibrant hub of scientific exchange.

The concluding ceremony was graced by Dr Sunil Kumar Singh, Director (Headquarters), CSIR–National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Dr Singh emphasised that while India imports a large amount of technology, the country has immense potential to generate its own solutions. He urged students to move beyond the narrow pursuit of monetary success and focus instead on knowledge creation. Praising the quality of projects on display, he said the research showcased at the fair offered strong hope for the future of Indian science.

Earlier, Muhammad Abdullah Javed, Director of A.J. Academy for Research and Development, highlighted how the science fair had instilled confidence in students, enabling them to present ideas clearly and respond thoughtfully to questions. He stressed the importance of collaboration between parents, institutions and students in nurturing innovation and guiding young talent towards meaningful futures.

The welcome address was delivered by Mrs Meenaz Bhanu, Secretary of the Board of Innovative Education. Dr Waliur Rahman was felicitated for receiving the prestigious Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar Award, India’s highest science honour, conferred by the President of India for outstanding contributions to scientific research. In his presidential address, Asif Hussain, Chairman of the Board of Innovative Education, reminded the audience that scientific inventions must be used for societal development and problem-solving rather than destruction.

Projects were evaluated by an expert panel of judges from diverse scientific backgrounds. Several awards were presented across categories and age groups, recognising originality, research depth and practical relevance. From local composting methods and natural water purifiers to studies on microplastics, soil erosion, renewable energy and environmental sustainability, the projects reflected strong scientific inquiry and social awareness.

The fair concluded with the distribution of mementos to participating schools, felicitation of judges and guests, presentation of awards, and the National Anthem. The Goa Inter-School Science Fair 2026 stood out for its emphasis on independent research, collaboration and innovation, laying a strong foundation for future scientists, researchers and problem-solvers in the state.

EduConnect

Taare Zameen Par: Goa’s First Inter-School Science Fair 2026 Sparks Young Scientific Minds

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

To foster the integration of academics with research, Goa is set to host its first Inter-School Science Fair titled Taare Zameen Par 2026. Organised by the Board of Innovative Education Goa (BIE) in collaboration with A.J Academy for Research and Development, the two-day event will take place on Friday and Saturday, January 9 and 10, 2026, at Samrat Garden, Margao.

Designed for students from Class IV to X, the Science Fair is a research-driven initiative that encourages young learners to seek answers through the scientific method. The fair features multiple categories, including Physical Sciences, Life Sciences and Environmental Sciences, offering students a platform to engage in meaningful and original scientific exploration beyond routine classroom learning.

Addressing the media at a press conference held on January 7 at CSPH, Miramar, Muhammad Abdullah Javed, Director of A.J Academy for Research and Development, emphasised the long-term vision of the initiative. He said that inspiring young minds today could one day lead India to global recognition in science, possibly even a Nobel Prize. A key highlight of the fair, he noted, is the strong emphasis on parent–school partnerships, encouraging collaborative efforts to nurture future scientists. Unlike conventional science exhibitions, this fair prioritises originality and independent research, with students working on unique problems using their own procedures and techniques.

Approximately 220 students from schools across Goa will present 97 innovative projects, showcased in both individual and group categories. A distinguished panel of judges will evaluate the projects, with outstanding entries being honoured with titles such as Budding Scientist, Emerging Scientist and Young Scientist. All participating schools, students and guiding teachers will receive certificates of participation.

The Science Fair will be inaugurated by Prof. F. M. Nadaf, Principal of the Government of Goa’s Autonomous College of Multidisciplinary Studies and Research, Margao. The concluding programme will be graced by Dr. Sunil Kumar Singh, Director Headquarters, CSIR-NIO Goa, as the Chief Guest.

The exhibition will remain open to students, parents, educators, science enthusiasts and the general public on both days from 10:30 am to 6 pm. The event will conclude with an awards ceremony on January 10, scheduled from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, celebrating the innovation, curiosity and dedication of Goa’s next generation of scientists.