Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Madurai, conducted a two-days residential training program on "Learning Science via Standards" for Science Teachers of BIS Standards Clubs. The event took place at SRM Hotel, Trichy, on 4th and 5th September 2024, wherein 54 Science Teachers primarily from Government Schools from the districts of Ariyalur, Karur, Madurai, Perambalur, Pudukkottai, Sivaganga, Tenkasi, Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli and Virudhunagar participated.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Shri S. D. Dayanand, Senior Director and Head, BIS Madurai. He outlined the objectives of the program and emphasized the significance of the "Learning Science via Standards" initiative, which includes 52 curated lesson plans. He also encouraged the teachers to integrate these plans into their curriculum, fostering a scientific approach to help students understand concept of scientific principles in a easy manner.
The first day of the training covered a range of topics, including the core activities of BIS, features of the BIS Care App, collaboration with academia, Genesis and functions of BIS Standard Clubs, and the crucial role of Science Teachers in promoting quality and standards. Additionally, lesson plans were discussed, focusing on products such as cement, caustic soda, Liquefied Petroleum gas stove, geysers, and pressure cookers.
On the second day, participants visited M/s AMMAN-TRY Steels (P) Limited in Trichy, where they observed the manufacturing facility, demonstrations of production, testing procedures and the scientific principles behind product testing. Following the factory visit, a group activity was conducted, where participants identified and presented scientific laws and principles related to everyday products, including plastic feeding bottles, plain copier paper, iodized salt, and potable water bottles. The program concluded with the distribution of certificates to all participants.
Since 2021, the Bureau of Indian Standards has established over 10,000 Standards Clubs across educational institutions in India, including 344 in Southern Tamil Nadu. These clubs, supported by BIS through financial assistance and guided by appointed mentors, aim to instill a culture of quality awareness among students, highlighting the relevance of Indian Standards in everyday life. The clubs engage in various activities designed to empower students as informed consumers, utilizing tools like the BIS CARE APP for consumer empowerment.