4 days ago
Scientists call for digital transition of Bengaluru's VITM on diamond jubilee
Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (VITM), a landmark scientific institution located in Bengaluru, celebrated its diamond jubilee on Sunday. The museum was inaugurated on July 27, 1965. During the event, people from the scientific community called for a digital transition of the museum.
'We live in a digital world, and we need to keep changing with the times. We want VITM to become more and more advanced digitally as the digital world does not have the constraints that are present in the physical world. With a technology like Virtual Reality (VR) glasses, students can experience unknown worlds, walk on Mars, or take a deep dive into the nano world. The possibilities are infinite in the digital world, and it should be expanded to make students realise how wondrous science is,' said Govindan Rangarajan, Director of Indian Institute of Science, while speaking at the event.
He also said that physical experience at a museum is equally important. 'Such a museum is critical these days as all youngsters are immersed in their phones and do not have tactile stimulation. When they come here and actually see the exhibits, feel them, and work on them with their own hands, it is a different experience for this generation. They will get inspired to choose a career in science and mathematics while interacting with these artefacts. We should transition to the digital world while also keeping the physical world (intact).'
The renovated 'Fun Science Gallery' was also inaugurated as part of the celebrations on Sunday. The gallery includes practical applications related to basic physics and science, the level of which is taught in high school and college. It also has puzzles and illusions for students to solve and experience.
B. Venkataraman, chairman of VITM's Executive Committee also stressed on digital transition. 'This museum has been a beacon of scientific knowledge, innovation, and inspiration since its inception. Over the years, it has fostered love for science and technology among millions, becoming a dynamic space where learning meets creativity and imagination. The way forward is digital, and in this era of transition, we need to delve deeply (into the digital world) and make sure that the mission continues,' he said.
