Indian Science Congress disagrees with Madras University: Row over Graduation

The Indian Science Congress (ISC), the apex body for promoting science and research, on Monday, disagreed with the Madras University's proposed move to disallow Plus II students of the science stream from taking up Arts or Commerce for graduation.

When asked about the University's move, which was at a proposal stage, to disallow Plus II students with Science as the core subject from taking up Arts or Commerce Stream in colleges affiliated to it instead of the Science Stream at the graduation level, ISC President-Elect, Prof G K Pandey today said it should not be forced upon students.

Admitting there was lack of interest for science among the students, which appeared to be quite scary and boring, one of the Professor said ''we should find suitable programmes to attract students to science...We cannot force the Science subject on students''.

''It is the interest with matters...we should create that kind of atmosphere to develop interest in science and students take it as a career instead of forcing on them'', he averred.

Students pursuing the science stream in classes XI and XII may not have the option of pursuing a different branch of study in arts and science colleges affiliated to the Madras University in the future as Vice Chancellor G Thiruvasagam was actively considering restricting science students from joining arts or commerce courses

In the wake of continued falling patronage for courses in basic sciences in colleges, Dr Thiruvasagam was recently quoted as saying as a corrective measure the university is ''very seriously thinking'' of passing a resolution in the academic council mandating students who pass out of the science stream in school be allowed to join only basic science courses (B.Sc) in college and not pursue any other discipline.

The main aim of the ISC, which was supported by the Department of Science and Technology, was to promote science and research and attract young minds, Another Prof. said, calling for creation of right atmosphere for young students to take up science as a career.

He said this would figure among the discussions during the five-day 98th Indian Science Congress to be organized by the SRM University from January three to seven next year.

- Asian Tribune -