This century is the century of Asia, says Nobel laureate

For Nobel laureate Richard Ernst, Asians should not worry that the continent has not produced many Nobel winners. HT reports.

For Nobel laureate Richard Ernst, Asians should not worry that the continent has not produced many Nobel winners.

HT Image

Speaking at the 2010 Asian Science Camp, held for the first time in India, he said it was more important to make a valid contribution than vying for the aware from Stockholm.

"Every region has a special problem," said Ernst on Tuesday. "Solve their problems and get recognised locally."

The camp, aimed at motivating students to pursue science especially research, is in its fourth year. In India, it was hosted by Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education under Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR).

"This century is the century of Asia," said scientist C.N. Rao. "Today, the US, Europe and Asia are contributing to science in that order. But in 20 years, Asia must be ahead of the two. Asia has the largest population in the world and hence we need to contribute."

Of the 185 participating students, 30 will represent India while the remaining are from SAARC countries such as China, Japan, Egypt, Pakistan, New Zealand and Kazakhstan.

Over the next four days, scientists through lectures and discussions, will talk about their experiences with science, how they cracked the codes and answer queries posed to them.

"There is lot of talent in Asia that is raw and untapped," said Bessima (19) from Malaysia. "The camp will open new doors on how we can approach science and to know the rewards and challenges faced."

"We should not be in ivory towers. Important results for the poor are not coming from our scientific laboratories," said Ernst.

Srikumar Banerjee, chairperson, atomic energy commission, also reiterated that science should be used to solve people's problems without which its purpose is defeated.

"One has frustrations and one has to bear them and sustain to go further in science," he said.