The College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) today 15th November 2021 hosted a public lecture on the subject; ‘Contribution of Ancient India to Mathematics and Astronomy presented by Professor (Dr) Nachieketa K Sharma, a Professor in the Department of Physics, in the University of Siksha O Anusandhan.
While welcoming the presenter to the college, The Principal CEDAT, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe expressed his appreciation and that of the College for the effort by Professor (Dr) Nachieketa K Sharma.for coming to Uganda to share his experiences.
He commended the presenter for giving the history of Science in the local Indian languages, and noted that in Uganda, there was an ongoing discussion on how the teaching science subjects could be made easier and the possibility of teaching science in local languages.
He said plans were underway for the College to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with O Anusandhan University that would enable staff and students exchanges between the two universities.
While giving a detailed introduction of Mathematics, Professor (Dr) Nachieketa K Sharma said most of the things were done in India before the coming of Europeans. He stressed that Astronomy goes hand in hand with mathematics. He explained Astronomy in ancient India by giving the Vedic literature of 1500 BCE making reference to the sun, moon, stars, planet and meteors.
The Deputy Principal CEDAT Dr. Venny Nakazibwe commended the presenter for the insightful presentation, adding that India was on the path of decolonizing science. She further introduced some alumni of Makerere University who had just completed their Master’s degree in physics from Siksha O Anusandhan University following an award of a Scholarship by the university offered Samuel after being identified as a bright student of Physics.
College staff and students attended the lecture.
Biography of the presenter
Dr Nachieketa K Sharma, a PhD in Physics is a regular Full Professor in Siksha O Anusandhan University, currently the 20th Best University in India (according to 2021 Govt. of India’s National Institutional Ranking Framework) and a QS World Ranking in the category of 801-1000. His basic research area is Human Photoreceptor Optics. His experience of close to 35 years include all subjects of B.Sc (Hons) in Physics, mathematical physics & classical electrodynamics at Masters, M.Phil. He has published 25 papers in internationally reputed journals, 165 book chapters/popular articles, delivered close to 75 invited lectures and penned 5 books. He is an acclaimed translator under National Translation Mission of India. Prof JP Holman’s internationally popular Heat Transfer (800 pages textbook for B.Tech Mechanical Engg.) will be shortly published in Odia by National Translation Mission. The Epic Struggle & Leelavati’s Daughters are under production. He has been highly appreciated by NITI Aayog (Planning Commission of Govt. of India) for translating into Odia the Unnati Aap. As Director of International Relations & Admission he has visited several countries like Bhutan, Nepal, Indonesia, Malyasia, Ethiopia, Uganda (3rd visit) Bangladesh and is instrumental in bringing 300 students from 15 countries who are reading in various courses, both at UG,PG & PhD level. As Director of University Outreach Programmes he has started a highly popular Siksha O Anusandhan Fortnightly Academic Lecture programme since Feb 2021 which has been delivered till now by 19 reputed academicians, professionals, bureaucrats, diplomats, educationists, social workers. Currently his passion has become to unearth the contribution of Ancient India to Mathematics & Astronomy. He is a regular columnist for newspapers & Panelist in TVs on popular science subjects. As Programme Coordinator of National Service Scheme, Dr Sharma is closely associated with the orientation of the students’ towards social service for which the University was awarded the Green Champion Award & highly appreciated for Beat Covid Campaign. As Prof-in-Charge of newly created Transliteration Centre known as SOA ANUBADA, Prof Sharma is working to bring out a comprehensive Glossary of English Scientific & Technical terms into Odia which will facilitate translation of Engg. text books into Odia, which is one of the mandate of National Education Policy 2020.
Written by Harriet Musinguzi, Principal Communication Officer, CEDAT
Posted By Isemaghendera Alex, Web Administrator, CEDAT