Beneficiaries:
51 Students
The Indian
Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), Sub Regional Council 08 D, in
collaboration with the Departments of Physics of Shivaji University, Kolhapur,
and Rajaram College, Kolhapur, successfully organized a State Level Winter
School in Physics on Optics and Electromagnetism during 26–30 December 2025 at
the Department of Physics, Shivaji University, Kolhapur. The programme was
conceived as an academic enrichment initiative aimed at strengthening
conceptual understanding and analytical skills among undergraduate students of
Physics, while also providing valuable pedagogical insights to postgraduate
students, research scholars, and faculty members. The primary objective of the
Winter School was to enhance students’ comprehension of core areas of Physics
that are often considered conceptually demanding, particularly Optics and
Electromagnetism.
The programme
commenced with registration followed by a formal inaugural function. The
inaugural session was graced by Dr. V. N. Shinde, Registrar, Shivaji
University, Kolhapur, as the Chief Guest, and was presided over by Dr. R. S.
Vhatkar, I/C Head, Department of Physics, Shivaji University, Kolhapur. Shri
Mahesh Shetti, President, Regional Council 08 of IAPT, attended the function as
Guest of Honour. The dignitaries highlighted the importance of teacher-oriented
academic programmes and appreciated the role of IAPT in nurturing conceptual
learning and scientific temperament among Physics students.
The academic
programme was conducted over five days and was carefully structured to ensure
continuity and progressive learning. A series of lectures on Optics were
delivered by Shri Mahesh Shetti and Shri Vijay Jadhav, covering fundamental
concepts, derivations, and applications relevant to undergraduate teaching.
These sessions emphasized clarity of physical principles, conceptual reasoning,
and resolution of common misconceptions. The optics lectures were well received
by participants and contributed significantly to strengthening their
foundational understanding.
Electromagnetism
constituted a major component of the Winter School. Multiple lectures were
delivered by Shri A. M. Shaker and Dr. Kiran Kolwankar, addressing essential
topics such as electromagnetic laws, field concepts, and their applications.
Special focus was given to Magnetism and Ampere’s law, which were explained in
detail by Dr. Madhavi Thakurdesai. The systematic presentation of concepts,
supported by derivations and illustrative examples, enabled participants to
develop a coherent understanding of the subject.
In addition to core
subject lectures, the programme included special invited talks that enriched
the academic scope of the Winter School. Dr. V. N. Shinde delivered a lecture
that provided valuable academic and administrative perspectives, while Prof. Anil
Raghav presented a session on Space Weather, introducing participants to
interdisciplinary applications of Physics. The resource persons demonstrated
strong subject expertise and effective teaching methodologies. The lectures
were interactive in nature, encouraging participants to ask questions and
engage in discussions
Along with enrichment
and lecture series on Optics and Electromagnetism. The Star Gazing program
was arranged on 26th December 2025 on the terrace of Administrative building of
Shivaji University for the Winter School students by the organizing team.
Students were given opportunities to use telescopes and optical instruments to
view: The Moon’s surface features, Bright planets visible that night, Prominent
stars and constellations. The Star Gazing Program was an enriching and exciting
part of the Winter School activities. It provided participants with a unique
blend of theoretical insights and practical exposure to astronomy.
On the last day, 30th
December a small tour was arranged to visit Common Facility Center (CFC) of
Shivaji University Kolhapur, where students were introduced to the major
facilities available in CFC which are important in research and development.
Students were very enthusiastic in understanding the instrument’s function and
applications. The various instruments were demonstrated by the experts and
technicians such Electron Microscopes (TEM/SEM) – imaging and analysis
of materials, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) – study of crystal structures, Spectroscopy
Tools (FTIR, Raman, XPS) – chemical composition and surface analysis, Mass
Spectrometers (GC-MS/MS)– identification of chemical compounds.
The Winter School
witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and teachers from various
institutions. Participants remained actively engaged throughout the programme,
reflecting the relevance and quality of the academic content. Feedback from
participants indicated significant improvement in conceptual clarity,
problem-solving skills, and appreciation of the underlying physical principles
governing optical and electromagnetic phenomena. The programme also inspired
participants to adopt better learning and teaching practices.
The organizational
aspects of the Winter School were efficiently managed by the organizing
committee. The registration process, venue arrangements, and coordination of
academic sessions were carried out smoothly. Adequate facilities were provided
to ensure a conducive learning environment, and the support extended by faculty
members and volunteers contributed to the overall success of the programme.
The Winter School
concluded with a valedictory function graced by Dr. Madhavi Thakurdesai, Former
Principal, B. K. Birla College, Mumbai, as the Chief Guest. Dr. R. S. Vhatkar
presided over the function and appreciated the academic outcomes of the programme.
Certificates were distributed to the participants, acknowledging their active
involvement and commitment to academic enrichment.
Overall, the State Level Winter School in Physics on Optics and Electromagnetism successfully achieved its objectives and proved to be a meaningful academic initiative. The entire program was planned and executed in a disciplined manner by Dr. Mansing Takale, and Dr. Ashwini Salunkhe and team under the guidance of Central IAPT and IAPT RC08 EC members.
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