Tamil Nadu promotes summer internships for college students

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government is encouraging science students in arts and science colleges to apply for summer internships at top national research institutions. This initiative aims to provide students with valuable research exposure. Colleges have been asked to support applications to prominent institutes such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in Hyderabad, and Baba Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Mumbai. A circular from the Tamil Nadu State Council for Higher Education highlighted these internships, describing them as unique opportunities for short-term research training. Many of these summer programs are residential and available at low fees, making them accessible for students from different backgrounds. The circular included a list of 33 leading research institutions, including ISRO, the Institute of Mathematical Sciences in Chennai, and various Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). M P Vijayakumar, vice-chairman of TANSCHE, stated that the internships would provide students with direct exposure to advanced research and allow them to work alongside prominent scientists. He also noted that the council could assist with travel and other expenses for those selected. Colleges have welcomed this initiative, believing it will inspire students to do better in their studies. P Murugakoothan, principal of Pachaiyappa's College for Men, said these internships could significantly change students' perspectives on basic sciences.