CHENNAI : Nearly 150 girls in neat uniforms and with plaited hair were closely paying attention to the speakers on Wednesday. As Standard XII students from Corporation schools in the city, they had every reason to concentrate, for senior academics spoke to them about learning methodologies and various career options. Organised by Science City, the day-long workshop on `Conceptual learning of science and career guidance' was aimed at giving students a fair idea of courses and career options they could consider after completion of school.

K. Subramanian, professor, Physics Department, Anna University, spoke on the importance of practical application of science and technology. His inaugural address highlighted the potential of Indians in science. If the potential was put to practical use, the country could develop faster, he said.

The Science City has been organising a series of events for school children in the last couple of months. While some of the programmes were for students from all over the State, a few, such as Wednesday's, were planned for urban students. The workshop was specifically organised for girl students keeping in mind the high drop-out ratio of girls in Corporation schools. Several girls stopped going to school after Standard VIII or X. Even if they completed Standard XII, very few went for higher education. The workshop was to encourage them to pursue graduation and post-graduation so that they could find good jobs, a Science City official said.

Senior academics representing various disciplines of science in the higher secondary textbook committee, including R. K.Natarajan, reader and head, Physics Department, Presidency College, V. Balasubramanian, S. Gunasekaran, K. Srinivasan, K. Ajithadoss, P. Sargunam Stephen and S. Lakshmi addressed the students.

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