Belagavi: More than 1,000 students from 13 schools and pre-university colleges took part in the ICMR-SHINE Open School Day Outreach Programme held at the ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine (NITM) in Belagavi on Aug 11 and 12.The two-day programme introduced students to biomedical research, health sciences and innovation through laboratory visits, hands-on activities, scientific demonstrations and interactions with researchers.A parallel event was held at the Model Rural Health Research Unit (MRHRU) in Sirwar, Raichur district, attracting around 200 students from nearby villages.SHINE (Science and Health Innovation for the Nextgen Explorers) is a nationwide initiative of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) aimed at encouraging students of Classes 9 to 12 to pursue careers in biomedical and health research.Students were introduced to different stages of scientific research, from identifying problems to developing evidence-based solutions. Sessions focused on scientific temper, critical thinking, innovation and evidence-based healthcare.Participants were also encouraged to join a national-level competition by submitting concept notes offering solutions to public health challenges. The competition, launched on August 11, will remain open until September 11, 2026.ICMR-NITM director Dr Subarna Roy and scientist and nodal coordinating officer Dr Banappa Unger thanked participating institutions for their enthusiastic response.
