BHUBANESWAR: The Siksha O Anusandhan (SOA) University has unveiled its Centre of Excellence in Theoretical and Mathematical Sciences. The Centre, which aims at promoting original research, was inaugurated by Chancellor Prof. Khageswar Pradhan here on Thursday.
The Centre would undertake fundamental and basic research in thrust areas for exploring origin of structure of matter and the universe as well as in atomic, nuclear, biological and other emerging areas in the frontiers of science. “Invention or discovery in any field of science is not possible without a strong foundation and without rigorous specialisation in frontier areas. The nation needs institutions of excellence fostering original research at internationally-competitive levels rather than encouraging imitative or career-oriented research,” Pradhan said.
Outlining the concept of the Centre, Vice-Chancellor Rajendra Prasad said, ‘’It would constitute a critical mass of reputed scientists and a well-defined structure having its own research agenda capable of integrating connected fields and associate complementary skills. The Centre’s vision would be to develop a learning community of the highest quality __ both scientifically-advanced and internationally-oriented, he said. Director of the Centre, Prof. Mina Ketan Parida said a major objective of the Centre would be to emphasise on original and indigenous research by dedicated faculty and scholars.
Several eminent scientists, including former director of Institute of Physics Prof. Siba Prasad Mishra and Prof. Subhendra Dev Mohanty of Michigan State University were present.
The Centre was set up following decision of Planning and Monitoring Board of the University for creation of centres of excellence in identified areas. The decision was subsequently approved by the Board of Management.
