THE SOPHIA EDUCATION TO EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE PROGRAMME

The Science Excellence Programme for advancement in Science studies was instituted by the Principal and the Science faculty of Sophia College to mark the Silver Jubilee of the Sophia Bhabha Institute of Science. The programme was formally inaugurated on College Day, 12th December 1991.

This programme was instituted with a view to supplementing the solely examination-oriented University Syllabus. It includes a wide array of events and subjects so as to ensure development of scientific attitudes and skills. The emphasis is on motivation, creativity, and independent thought and is linked with an amalgamation of communication skills and organisational ability. Students of this programme are expected to pursue rigorously the quest for excellence, taking in their stride the various pressures encountered in the present system of Science studies.

The programme includes four semesters, one in the second term of the F.Y.B.Sc., two in the S.Y.B.Sc., and one in the first term of the T.Y.B.Sc. Within this span of time, the students, under the guidance of a resource person, would be expected to earn 10 credits.

The first part of the programme includes a creative aspect e.g. writing an article, organizing a seminar or paper presentations. This leads progressively to tougher assignments e.g. extensive literature survey, minor research projects etc. This latter may be conducted in the College or in any laboratory/industry. In order to inculcate a sense of social purpose, students would be encouraged to participate actively in outreach projects like the NSS and teaching in Municipal Schools. Permutations and combinations of credit are also permitted provided all the aspects of the programme are covered. All students will be graded and the outstanding students who satisfy all the requirements of the course will receive the 'Mahindra Search for Talent Scholarships'. The Mrs. Margaret Rebello Sequeira prizes will be awarded to the students who secure second and third ranks in the programme.