Physics Teachers’ Training Programme Inaugurated at GITAM

A three-day Residential Professional Development Programme for Physics Teachers on “Advanced Concepts, Pedagogy, and Educational Tools” was inaugurated at the Hyderabad campus of GITAM Deemed to be University on 1 June 2026. The programme is being organized by the Department of Physics, School of Science, in association with the Indian Physics Association (IPA), Visakhapatnam Chapter.

Addressing the inaugural session, Prof. D.S. Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor of GITAM Hyderabad, emphasized that the programme was initiated not as a commercial activity, but as an academic responsibility to nurture and develop quality Physics teachers. He encouraged the participants to make the best use of the opportunity to learn advanced concepts and practical applications from eminent experts in the field.

Prof. B.V.R. Tata, Distinguished Professor of Physics at GITAM, explained the structure of the three-day programme, stating that the sessions were carefully designed with theoretical discussions in the morning and hands-on training in the post-lunch sessions. He assured the participants that several distinguished experts would enrich them with their knowledge and experience.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof.Anantha Ramakrishna, Dean and Professor, School of Science, described Physics as one of the most fascinating subjects and the foundation of ultimate knowledge. Referring to the common misconception that science cannot lead to financial success, he highlighted the importance of patent laws, innovation, and product development in creating economic value through scientific knowledge. He stressed the need to make science education economically meaningful for students. He later delivered the first technical session on “Electromagnetism: Some Real-Life Applications,” demonstrating practical problems, industrial applications, and the economic value associated with scientific innovations to inspire curiosity among participants.

Dr. M. Reza, Director, School of Science, introduced the academic and research facilities available at the School of Science, particularly highlighting the Multidisciplinary Unit Research and Technology Innovation (MURTI) Labs, which serve as a hub for interdisciplinary research. He invited the participants to visit the six advanced laboratories on campus.

The inaugural day also featured expert sessions by Prof. T.S. Natarajan, Retired Professor from the Department of Physics, IIT Madras, and Prof. G. Ravi Kumar, Distinguished Professor, Centre for Interdisciplinary Science at GITAM.

On the second day, expert lectures will be delivered by Prof.Vibhor Singh, Associate Professor of Physics, IISc Bengaluru, and Prof. G.A. Rama Rao, Retired Scientific Officer from BARC, Mumbai. The programme will continue for two more days with technical sessions and practical training activities. The program is coordinating by Dr. G. Sai Preeti and Dr. T. Vishwam.