Four Young Female Researchers Honored on National Science Day

In Bengaluru, four young female researchers will be honored by the state government on February 26 during the celebration of National Science Day. These remarkable girls, part of the Anveshana programme run by the Prayoga Institute of Education Research, have made significant contributions to the field of chemistry, showcasing their talents and determination despite coming from rural and tribal communities.

The honored students—Kirat Kaur, Yamini, Reshma J V, and Lakshmi G—represent a new generation of scholars. Their research paper, titled “Green synthesis of saponin-capped copper (II) oxide (CuO) nanoparticles and their efficacy in photocatalytic dye degradation,” was published in Sustainable Chemistry One World, a respected international science journal. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as some of these girls are first-generation learners, striving to reach ambitious academic heights for the first time in their families.

The Anveshana programme, which focuses on high school research, enabled these students to engage in a rigorous five-month research project. The initiative included two months of on-site research followed by three months off-site. The girls participated in this programme as high school students, applying through their schools and being selected by a panel of researchers at Prayoga.

On February 26, the girls will receive recognition from the Department of Science and Technology, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys. Their success story serves as an inspiring example of how education and research opportunities can empower young women from underrepresented backgrounds.

As these talented researchers step into the spotlight, their achievements highlight the importance of supporting and promoting scientific inquiry among young people, especially those from rural and tribal communities. Their journey is a testament to resilience and determination, demonstrating that with the right support, they can achieve remarkable feats in the world of science.