Manipal: Manipal University under the sponsorship of Department of Science and Technology (DST), will organise a week-long Science Camp as part of the governments "Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research" (INSPIRE) programme beginning July 1.

Briefing at a press conference Dr G K Prabhu, the Registrar of the University and Dr K Satyamurthy, the Director of Manipal Life Sciences Centre (MLSC), a constituent of Manipal University and organiser of the five-day camp said MLSC had been selected by the DST for conducting the camp aimed at attracting talented school students to science and research and promote enthusiasm about pursuing scientific research. It would also as a career through interaction with renowned mentors.

Dr Satyamurthy said that the union government had earmarked Rs. 2000 crore in the 11th plan under INSPIRE programme all over the country aiming at inculcating scientific temper in the youngsters of the country by providing a platform for stimulating and brainstorming interaction with mentors. This would in turn help in fostering innovation and creativity in these youngsters in various fields of science and research. After National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Suratkal chosen last year for organising such camp, Manipal University had chosen by DST for the first time to conduct such programme, he said. He said the camp would host 150 students from all over Karnataka.

Invitations had been sent to the Head Masters/Principals of over 890 schools and inter-colleges in the state. 50,000 students who are in the top one per cent of their class X board examination (state/central) and currently pursuing science in class XI or XII would be selected of which 150 students will be short-listed based only on merit.