To promote advancements in science and technology among the public and foster scientific temper, thinking, and curiosity, particularly among students in rural areas, two Regional Science Centres have been established. One is located at Pilikula Nisargadhama in Mangalore, and the other at Karnataka University Campus in Dharwad, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
Both centers are operating effectively, organizing various science outreach programs. These initiatives aim to make science accessible to the public while fostering engagement with science. Sub-Regional Science Centres, smaller versions of the Regional Science Centres, are being developed progressively across district headquarters in Karnataka to popularize science and technological innovations.
The Sub-Regional Science Centre in Karwar serves as an educational hub, conducting diverse programs such as competitions, science summer camps, workshops, lectures, and sky observation events for students, teachers, and the public during celebrations of World, National, and International Days.
Several organizations, including the Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (Bangalore), Karnataka State Council for Science & Technology (Bangalore), Karnataka Rajya Vijnana Parishat (Bangalore), District Administration (Uttara Kannada), Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, Karwar Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium (Bangalore), and other departments, support the center.
The Department of Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with the District Administration of Uttara Kannada, established the Sub-Regional Science Centre in Karwar on June 1, 2017. The center’s primary goal is to promote science and technology among students, particularly in rural areas. It is located 3 KM west of Tagore Beach.
The Department of Science and Technology provides annual funding for the center’s maintenance and educational activities through the Karnataka State Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS) in Bangalore.
The center boasts facilities such as a Miniature Nuclear Gallery, a Fun Science Gallery, Outdoor Science Models, a Marine Museum, a Matsalaya, and a library. Additionally, it houses over 100 medicinal and ornamental plants.
Timings and Entry Fees
| Day | Timings | Remarks | Entry Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Open | Rupees 15 |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Open | Rupees 15 |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Open | Rupees 15 |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Open | Rupees 15 |
| Friday | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Open | Rupees 15 |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Open | Rupees 15 |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM | Open | Rupees 15 |
SESC Karwar Initiatives for 2025
It is a hub for experiential learning, the centre is continually evolving to meet the demands of the future. In 2025, SRSC Karwar has outlined several ambitious initiatives aimed at enhancing its role as a catalyst for scientific awareness and community development.
1. Introduction of Renewable Energy Demonstration Projects
In alignment with India’s goals for sustainable development, SRSC Karwar plans to introduce renewable energy demonstration projects in 2025. These initiatives will feature solar panels, wind turbines, and micro-hydro models that exhibit the working principles of renewable energy technologies. These installations will serve as educational tools for students and local communities, promoting awareness about the benefits of sustainable energy sources and empowering visitors to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.
2. Marine Biodiversity Conservation Programs
Situated along the coastal town of Karwar, the center is uniquely positioned to address marine conservation issues. The 2025 agenda includes organizing workshops and exhibitions focused on marine biodiversity, the impact of climate change on oceans, and sustainable fishing practices. Collaborations with local fishermen, marine scientists, and conservationists will ensure that the program is both informative and actionable, fostering a sense of stewardship for the region’s coastal ecosystems.
3. STEM Education Outreach
Recognizing the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in shaping the future workforce, SRSC Karwar is enhancing its STEM outreach programs. Mobile science labs, equipped with interactive experiments, will visit schools in remote areas, making science education accessible to underserved communities. Hands-on workshops and coding boot camps will be launched to inspire the next generation of innovators.
4. Digital Planetarium Upgrade
In 2025, the SRSC plans to upgrade its digital planetarium to include advanced projection systems and an expanded library of educational content. The enhanced facility will provide immersive experiences for students, educators, and astronomy enthusiasts, covering topics such as constellations, planetary science, and space exploration. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the planetarium will ignite curiosity about the cosmos and encourage careers in space sciences.
5. Innovation and Incubation Hub
A significant highlight of 2025 is the establishment of an innovation and incubation hub for young scientists and entrepreneurs. This hub will provide mentorship, resources, and funding opportunities for innovative projects. By creating a platform for collaborative problem-solving, the initiative aims to tackle regional challenges such as water conservation, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.
6. Inclusive Science for All
To promote inclusivity, SRSC Karwar will introduce programs tailored to differently-abled individuals. Special exhibits, tactile models, and sensory experiences will ensure that everyone can engage with scientific content meaningfully.
7. Community Engagement and Festivals
The center will host science festivals and hackathons to engage the public in dynamic ways. Events like robotics competitions, nature trails, and science fairs will create a vibrant environment for knowledge-sharing and innovation.
Sub-Regional Science Centre Karwar Staff
- Shri Rohan Rajendraji Bhujle – Curator
- Smt. Kavita R. Mesta – Education Assistant
- Shri Akshay M. Naik – Technical Assistant
- Shri Raghavendra Gunagi – Technician
- Smt. Anusha R. Gouda – Second Division Assistant
- Shri Ramachandra N. Ambig – Night Watchman
- Shri Mounesh Gunagi – Sweeper
Contact Details
- Sub-Regional Science Centre, Karwar
- Kaiga Nilaya, Kodibag, Karwar – 581 303
- Phone Number: 08382 295540
- Email ID: srsc.karwar@gmail.com