Emphasising the need for a deeper intellectual commitment among science students, Rev. Dr Antony Prakash Montero, Principal of St Philomena College (Autonomous), Puttur, urged students to cultivate a strong research mindset and channel their knowledge towards addressing societal challenges.

He was presiding over the National Science Day- 2026 celebrations organised by the Science Forum of the college in commemoration of Sir C.V. Raman’s discovery of the ‘Raman Effect’.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Montero said that science students must aspire to be more than mere degree-holders. “They must nurture an intense passion for knowledge, sharpen their analytical thinking, and develop discipline and focus. Only then can they emerge as socially responsible scientists capable of offering solutions to real-world problems,” he observed.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr Krishna Prasad P.A., Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at SDM Institute of Technology, Ujire. Speaking on ‘Research Hypothesis and Methodology’, he highlighted the importance of systematic inquiry and theory-driven approaches in research. He stressed that precision and credibility in outcomes depend on adherence to structured methods and scientific rigour.

As part of the week-long Science Day celebrations, a series of competitions titled ‘SciFusion’ provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity and scientific temperament. Prizes were distributed to winners during the valedictory session.

Dean of the Science Faculty Dr Malini K., Science Forum coordinators Dr Edwin S. D’Souza and Ms Shreeraksha B.V. were present on the dais. The programme began with a welcome by student Yagnesh and concluded with a vote of thanks by Rajat. Gayatri compered the event, while Manasa and Aparna led the invocation.

Faculty members of the Science Department and over 160 students participated in the programme.