Internship Programme for Postgraduate Life Science Students of SSSUHE_06-13 May 2023

(At Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Centre for Child Heart Care & Training in Pediatric Cardiac Skills)

From May 6th to May 13th, a group of postgraduate Life Science students from Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence embarked on an enriching and knowledge-packed journey to Mumbai. This week-long internship program, held at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Centre for Child Heart Care & Training in Pediatric Cardiac Skills, provided them with invaluable insights into the world of healthcare research and its applications.

The internship kicked off on May 6th. Following a day of rest, they commenced their journey on May 7th with an ice-breaking ceremony, allowing them to get acquainted with one another and foster a sense of camaraderie. Dr. Sudhir Kapoor, a respected Senior Research Scientist, delivered an inspiring talk, extending a warm welcome to the centre and motivating them to pursue their academic aspirations diligently.

During the program, the students were fortunate to hear from esteemed speakers who shared their expertise and knowledge with them. Dr. Rishikesh A. Wadke, the Head of Community Health and Divine Mother and Child Health Program at the Kharghar centre, enlightened students on the intricacies of research methodology. He delved into the various types of research designs, emphasizing their significance in ensuring accurate and reliable results. The students delved into observational studies, experimental studies, and survey research, understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different research questions.

The students' visit to the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research, and Education in Cancer (ACTREC) was an exceptional opportunity. ACTREC, the research wing of the renowned Tata Memorial Centre, is dedicated to advancing cancer research, treatment, and therapies. During their time at ACTREC, they witnessed cutting-edge research in action, exploring state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced technology. They had the privilege of interacting with researchers, learning about their ongoing projects, and the collaborative efforts involved in cancer research. Witnessing clinical trials and understanding the vital role of biorepositories in research further broadened their perspectives.

Throughout the program, the students engaged in various sessions that expanded their knowledge and skills. Topics such as stem cells in regenerative medicine, epigenetics and cancer studies, research ethics, patient counselling, and congenital heart diseases were covered comprehensively. The students had the opportunity to visit the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Biobank for Congenital Heart Diseases, witnessing the processes involved in sample collection and the critical role of ethical considerations in research.

On the final day, the students participated in hands-on experiences, statistical exercises, quizzes, and assessments, allowing them to apply their newfound knowledge. The program culminated with a sense of accomplishment as they were awarded completion certificates, marking the successful completion of an intense and enlightening internship.

Education and research are the pillars that drive progress and transform lives. The experiences and knowledge gained during this Mumbai visit have reinforced the students' belief in the power of education and the importance of supporting research initiatives. Let us come together and extend our support to the cause of education and research, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.