Department of Botany

 

Degree course was started in the Department of Botany in 1957 and the post graduate course in 1982. The department became a recognized research centre in 1988. This research centre has produced 13 PhDs. At the moment, 10 scholars are doing their research work leading to doctoral degree under the able guidance of the guides of this department. The department has collaborated in research projects with esteemed institutions such as IISc, Bangalore; CTCRI, TBGRI, RRL, SCTMIST, RGCB, etc.

The Botany Department has a well equipped laboratory, where research activities under Tissue Culture, Mutation Breeding, Environmental Science, Reproductive Biology are being carried out. The full-fledged tissue culture lab is equipped for offering Biotechnology as elective paper for PG course. The Dept. has projects funded by UGC and KSCSTE Recently the research lab has acquired a PCR.

As part of the quality improvement programme, the department staff ensures that the students under their care, receive the best support and guidance throughout their studies. Test papers and tutorial sessions are held regularly to evaluate and to enhance the overall development of the students. Group tutors monitor the academic performance of the students and special attention is given to the weaker students. Brighter students are encouraged to perform to their best. Students are also given opportunity to present papers, attend seminars and workshops. The Botany department publishes a manuscript magazine, Aalthara, to help bring out the creative writing skills of the students. Apart from this, a display of notice board that is updated daily, keeps the students in touch with the current developments in the science of Botany, and it is maintained by the students themselves.

The students are given counseling where they are encouraged to speak frankly on their personal problems, academic matters, higher education and career opportunities. Guidance and moral support are amply provided to them. The Department also helps financially backward students in completing their studies. Visit to research institutions, Botanic gardens, Sanctuaries and National Parks provide an exposure to students besides their theory and practical classes. Teachers and students participate in extension activities of government and non-government organizations.

The teachers of the department are actively engaged in research and have produced more than 50 research papers. They update their knowledge by attending seminars and workshops at national and international levels, and assess themselves by taking feedback from students.