The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) hosted Science and Health Innovation for the Nextgen Explorers (SHINE), held a national-level initiative aimed at sparking curiosity in biomedical research among school students.
On August 8, the ICMR–National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health (ICMR-NIRRCH), Mumbai, invited about 100 students from 10 schools across the city for a day of immersive scientific experiences. The programme featured interactive laboratory tours, live demonstrations of advanced research techniques, engaging talks on public health challenges, and direct interactions with scientists, giving students a glimpse into potential careers in science.
Extending its reach to rural areas, SHINE was also conducted at Model Rural Health Research Units (MRHRUs) in Maharashtra. On August 7, MRHRU Dahanu hosted over 100 students, while MRHRU Vani welcomed more than 200 students the next day, offering similar hands-on sessions.
Students asked probing questions and showes interest in future research opportunities. Officials said such outreach programmes help build scientific temper, encourage innovation, and strengthen ties between research institutions and the community.
ICMR, one of the world’s oldest medical research bodies, aligns its research priorities with national health goals. ICMR-NIRRCH focuses on reproductive and child health, with expertise ranging from infertility and adolescent health to genomics and reproductive tract cancers.
For more details on SHINE and future programmes, visit https://nirrch.res.in/.
