Triggering an interest in science among kids

Keen minds

He enjoyed discussions on science and encouraged his students to develop a scientific temper.

To take this forward, he even set up a unique science centre with the help of Infosys 10 years ago at Dr H N High School in his hometown Hosur.

The sight that greets the visitors right at the entrance to the Infosys Science Centre is a board in Kannada reiterating Narasimhaiah’s principle: ‘Prashanisade Oppabedi’, loosely translated ‘Do not accept without questioning’.

The centre aims to introduce children, especially those in rural areas, to the various facets of science and inculcate in them a scientific temper from  the primary school level itself.

The centre was constructed at a cost of Rs 60 lakh, of which Infosys founder Narayana Murthy and his wife Sudha Murty contributed Rs 20 lakh towars this.

Fascinating exhibits

The centre has several exhibits pertaining to various streams of science including physics, chemistry, astrophysics, geology, biology and mathematics.

There are prototypes of satellites and satellite launch vehicles including the GSLV, PSLV, SLV and ASLV. There is detailed description of the functioning of Rohini, Aryabhata and other satellites. Students can also see photographs of lunar and solar eclipses, and other heavenly bodies. There are models explaining the functioning of the human body, the circulatory system and central nervous system.   The school’s head master Ramanjinappa and science teacher H V Venkatesh act as guides at the centre.

Free entry

There is no fee for the centre and is open to visitors on Tuesdays and Fridays. There is a seismological and research institute about two km from the school. But entry to this centre is restricted for security reasons.