BOTANIQUE: The Bridge Course Organized by the PG Department of Botany
On 16th August 2024, the PG Department of Botany organized a Bridge Course for the First-Semester M.Sc. Botany students. The course aimed to bridge the gap between undergraduate and postgraduate studies, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum, research opportunities and the scope of Plant Science.
The program commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. Usman A., who introduced the students to the present status of the Department, highlighted its achievements and ongoing projects. The session set the tone for the day, providing the students with a sense of belonging and motivation as they embarked on their Post Graduate journey. Following the welcome, Dr. Faseela P. provided an overview of the M.Sc. Botany curriculum. She meticulously explained the structure of the course, emphasized the importance of each module and how they interconnect to form a holistic understanding of the subject. It was crucial in helping students to navigate their academic journey with clarity and purpose. The next session led by Shifa M., focused on the laboratory facilities and good practices in which she introduced the state-of-the-art labs available within the Department and elaborated on the various techniques and methodologies that they would be using throughout the course. Nadiya K.T. then handled the session to discuss the scope of the Plant Science course that highlighted the vast opportunities available to botanists, ranging from academic research to roles in Environmental Conservation, Agriculture and Biotechnology. Surya E.V. followed with an informative discussion on competitive exams to provide the guidance on how to prepare for exams like CSIR-NET, GATE and other relevant tests, that can open doors to research and academic positions in prestigious institutions. It was instrumental in motivating students to aim for higher academic and professional achievements. Afterwards, Sudheesha K. delivered a talk on the latest trends and innovations in research areas of Botany, in turn encouraged students to explore research opportunities and contribute to the field with original ideas. The final session conducted by Deepa P., who familiarized the students with the campus flora. This interactive session involved a walk through the campus, where students learned about the various plant species present, their significance and ecological roles. The entire program seamlessly coordinated by Nadiya K.T. and Daliya T.P., whose efforts ensured the smooth execution of the course. In conclusion, the Bridge Course successfully achieved its objectives, leaving the students better prepared and more confident to embark on their M.Sc. Botany journey.