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Dr Amunugama moots Exploratorium for awareness in modern Scientific Advancement among young
View(s):The Higher Education Ministry intends to set up an Exploratorium based on the experimental hands-on Museum of Science, Art and Human Perception in San Francisco, United States, with the Colombo Planetarium.
A Holy Mass was held to mark the 150th Jubilee Day of St. Benedict’s College Kotahena on Friday (10), with President Maithripala Sirisena as Chief Guest. Others who graced the occasion included Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and Benedectine Bishops and Priests.
An Exploratorium is a Scientific Museum/Learning Laboratory of interactive exhibits, and is able to actively gather knowledge in a participatory process through the use of modern technology.
On an initiative by Minister of Higher Education & Research, Dr Sarath Amunugama, a related discussion was held this week with senior officials of the Colombo Planetarium and Sir Arthur C. Clarke Institute of Modern Technologies.
The Minister said the objective of the Exploratorium is to promote awareness on modern scientific advancement among the young.
The Exploratorium will form an integrated complex with the Planetarium which will be transformed into a visitor-friendly and lively Exhibition and Learning centre.
The officials were directed to expeditiously formulate and submit a comprehensive feasibility report which the Cabinet wishes to have.
The Minister requested the Sir Arthur C. Clarke Institute to assist the new complex in its work programme on the basis of a collaboration in high scientific research with popular science. He also requested it to revamp its programmes for a significant contribution to the country’s development.
The Minister also encouraged establishing links with expatriate Sri Lankan scientists and obtain their assistance.
Among those at the discussion were Higher Education Ministry Secretary P. Ranepura, Chancellor of Moratuwa University, Prof. Ananda Jayawardane, Colombo University’s Prof. Chandana Jayaratne, Planetarium Head, Priyanka Koralagama, Director General of Arthur C. Clarke Institute of Modern Technologies, Sanath Panawennage and officials from the Finance and Higher Education Ministries.