The micro-scale chemistry laboratory technique kit launched by National Council of Education Research and Training at Regional Institute of Education in Bhubaneswar. Pictures by Ashwinee Pati

Bhubaneswar, March 27: Realising the fundamental importance of laboratories, the National Council of Education Research and Training (NCERT) has recommended that they be used in schools.

A workshop for teachers was held at the Regional Institute of Education here.

There, teachers from across eastern India were shown and trained on how to use mini laboratories.

“NCERT has recommended the use of micro scale chemistry laboratory in schools under National Curriculum Framework (NCF). The laboratory can be set up with a minimal cost by placing revolving boxes over a table in schools that have no chemistry laboratories,” said associate professor and programme coordinator Jyotshna Mahapatra

“These laboratories can also easily replace the existing traditional laboratory or can be used as a mobile laboratory. Students from Classes VIII, IX and X and those from Plus Two department will find the laboratories extremely useful. It will be even more beneficial for schools in rural areas,” she added.

After setting up model laboratories at New Delhi and successfully trying out the techniques in selected schools of Delhi, NCERT is now conducting workshops across the country to train teachers on the functioning of such laboratories. Teachers from Bihar, Jharkhand and Bengal participated in the workshop. The council has also published books on the micro-scale chemistry experiments and developed the required micro apparatus.

“Schools interested in teaching the micro-scale techniques must purchase the micro-scale equipment, manual and textbooks. Cost of a micro-scale laboratory technique kit will come around Rs 33,300,” said Mohapatra.

“Before Orissa, the mini laboratory has been tested in states such as Bihar, Uttarakhand, Kashmir and Jharkhand and has been widely accepted. Almost 2,000 kits have already been sold. “We hope that the Orissa government adopts the technique in schools and colleges in the state,” Prof. H.O. Gupta, head of workshop department in NCERT, New Delhi, said

Besides saving time and reducing the wastage of chemicals, the technique is less hazardous, environment friendly and low in cost. It promotes the principle of 3 Rs Reduce Recover and Recycle and creates the sense of green chemistry.

The mini laboratory is more safe and user friendly for people with disabilities,” he said.