An industrial visit to the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI), located in Trivandrum, was organized for the first and second-year B.Sc. Biotechnology students on February 23, 2024. The visit provided students with an opportunity to gain practical insights into various aspects of biotechnology research and development. Approximately 43 students from the B.Sc. Biotechnology programme, along with three faculty members of the department, Ms Remisha Ramesh, Ms Nazla K A, and Ms Sabina S, participated in the industrial visit. The students were accompanied by the faculty members to ensure a smooth and informative experience. The visit commenced early morning with the students and faculty members departing from the college premises at 3:00 AM. The early departure allowed ample time to explore the facilities and laboratories at JNTBGRI and engage in meaningful interactions with researchers and experts. During the visit to JNTBGRI, the students had the opportunity to explore various labs and research facilities, including:
- Biotechnology Lab: Students witnessed demonstrations and experiments showcasing the application of biotechnology techniques in research and development projects. They learned about gene cloning, genetic engineering, and molecular biology techniques.
- Tissue Culture Lab: The tissue culture lab provided insights into plant tissue culture techniques used for the propagation of elite plant species, conservation of rare and endangered plants, and production of disease-free plants.
- Microbiology Lab: In the microbiology lab, students observed microbiological techniques used for the isolation, characterization, and identification of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and algae.
- Herbarium: The visit to the herbarium offered students a glimpse into the collection, preservation, and documentation of plant specimens for research and educational purposes.
The industrial visit to JNTBGRI provided students with valuable practical knowledge and hands-on experience in various aspects of biotechnology research. They gained insights into the application of biotechnological techniques in plant science, microbiology, and biodiversity conservation. The interactions with researchers and experts enhanced their understanding of real-world applications of biotechnology in different fields.
The industrial visit to JNTBGRI was an enriching experience for the B.Sc. Biotechnology students and faculty members. It provided them with an opportunity to broaden their knowledge, interact with professionals in the field, and gain practical exposure to cutting-edge research facilities. Such visits play a crucial role in complementing classroom learning and preparing students for careers in biotechnology and related fields.
