EVENT TITLE: “Portraits of Biology”

DATE: 10th September 2025

DURATION: 01 day

VENUE: Gallery Hall, 4th floor, Block–V.

EVENT ORGANIZING HEAD: Dr. M. Kamaraj

EVENT CONVENORS: Dr.Suresh.S

NO OF PARTICIPANTS: 150

SUMMARY OF THE EVENT:

The Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), Ramapuram, successfully organized “Portraits of Biology – 2025”, a brand-building event, on 10th September 2025. The event was designed around the themes: 1. Life Under the Microscope. 2. The Circle of Life. Students were invited to submit photographs, drawings, and paintings that creatively depicted biological concepts. The objective of the program was to provide a creative platform to engage school students in science through art, thereby bridging creativity and biology. This initiative aimed to make biology more relatable and memorable while promoting institutional brand building and outreach activities.

The inaugural session began with a Welcome Address by Dr. M. Kamaraj, Associate Professor & Head, Department of Biotechnology, who extended a cordial welcome to all dignitaries and participants, highlighting the department’s commitment to academic and research excellence.

This was followed by an overview of the event by Dr. Suresh S., Convenor & Assistant Professor, who outlined the objectives of “Portraits of Biology” and emphasized the participation of around 13 schools with 35 student participants showcasing their talents through drawings, paintings, and photographs.

The Presidential Address was delivered by Dr.S.Thirumagan, Dean (S&H), SRMIST, Ramapuram. He appreciated the creativity of the students, encouraged their contribution to society, and lauded the department for organizing such initiatives that inspire young minds to explore the advancements of biological sciences.

The Chief Guest and Judge of the event, Prof. Dr. S. Renganathan from Anna University, Chennai, evaluated the theme-based entries and awarded prizes to the winners and participants. He admired the creativity of school students, appreciated their understanding of the given themes, and motivated them by highlighting the importance of sustainable goals in shaping the future.

The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Dr. Amala A., Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, who expressed gratitude to the management, the Chief Guest, school authorities, faculty members, and the enthusiastic student participants for their support in making the event a success.

Overall, Portraits of Biology – 2025 was a vibrant and impactful program that provided a unique platform for school students to integrate art and science, while strengthening institutional outreach and fostering scientific creativity.

OUTCOMES OF THE PROGRAM:

The event successfully achieved its objective of engaging school students in science through creative expression. A total of 13 schools with 35 participants showcased their artistic skills while interpreting biological concepts. The program not only enhanced the students’ scientific curiosity and creativity but also helped them relate biology to everyday life in a more memorable way. It provided a platform for school students to: Explore biological themes through photography, drawing, and painting. Gain exposure to the advancements and applications of biological sciences. Understand the significance of sustainability and societal contribution. Build confidence by presenting their work before experts and academicians. For the Department, the event strengthened institutional outreach and brand building, establishing SRMIST, Ramapuram, as a hub for fostering scientific creativity among young learners. The enthusiastic response from students, schools, and parents has paved the way for making Portraits of Biology a regular flagship program of the department.