Nobel laureate to students: Strive to become good human beings

Nobel prize winning scientist Richard Ernst today advised Asian students to strive to become good human beings and take up responsibilities in solving local and societal problems in their countries.

"It was important to become a good human being than just being a scientist," he said while inaugurating the 4th Asian Science Camp (ASC) for students here.

"It is necessary to have ethical foundation in whatever we do, and more importantly it is crucial to be responsible persons."

"Solving local, societal and regional problems are more important. What they think about you in Stockholm (where Nobel prizes are given) should not be your primary aim as a scientist," the 77-year-old physical chemist said addressing 194 students from 20 Asian countries.

Referring to the ancient Indian system of four-stage human life, the Nobel laureate said ethical responsibility at every stage is significant to carry out our duties.

Speaking on the occasion, CNR Rao, Chairman of Science Advisory Council to the prime minister, asked students to take Asia to greater heights in the field of science. "In the next 20 years, Asia has to be elevated to greater heights and science is one of the ways."

Advising them to make career in science, he said "today's problems are different and innovative research was needed to find solutions to these problems."

M Barma, director, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), said this was for the first time India is hosting the ASC and it is an effort to promote international scientific cooperation among future generation through interaction with top global scientists.

The ASC is fourth in the series and is being organised till August 21. Students from countries from Pakistan, Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Israel, Republic of Korea, Sri Lanka, Singapore and Malaysia, besides 30 teachers are attending the five-day event.

Earlier camps were held in Taipei (2007), Bali (2008) and Japan (2009).

Nearly a dozen world renowned scientists from India and abroad are interacting with the students.

The event's main aim is to enlighten undergraduate students by way of interaction with top global scientists, HC Pradhan, director of Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, and the convenor of ASC, said.