Jotsoma, Jun 18 (MExN): A three-day state-level workshop on science writing and communication, aimed at bridging the gap in scientific publications from the region, concluded at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, with organisers emphasising the vast untapped potential of Naga youth in research and the need to translate complex ideas into impactful publications.
The comprehensive workshop, held from June 10 to 12 in collaboration with the Naga Biodiversity Collective, equipped Master's students, Ph.D. scholars, and lecturers with critical tools for effective scientific reporting, creative writing, and media publishing.
Inaugurated under the chairmanship of Dr Lilongchem Thyüg, with opening remarks from Katasinliu Remmei, Head of the Department of Zoology, the programme featured technical sessions over the first two days led by Dr Priya Tamma, Associate Professor at Azim Premji University, Bangalore.
Dr Tamma guided participants through the foundational anatomy of research papers, structural nuances, and the classic IMRaD (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) format, stressing the importance of mind mapping and paragraph construction for organising chaotic data into coherent logical streams before writing.
She underscored the need for tense and voice integrity, using active voice, keeping introductions in the present tense, results in the past tense, and discussions in the present tense while also emphasising visual communication through designing accessible, colour-blind-friendly charts, tables, and presentation slides to complement oral data delivery.
Transitioning into the literary world, resource person Vishu Rita Krocha, publisher, PenThrill Publication and senior journalist detailed the lifespan of a manuscript, from submission and technical formatting, including acquiring unique ISBNs, to the ultimate bottlenecks of printing and market promotion. She strongly advocated for localised content, urging young scholars to ground their narratives in regional realities and indigenous experiences.
Krocha also demystified journalism principles through core concepts like the 5Ws and 1H (What, When, Where, Why, Who, and How), explaining how newspapers curate and prioritise daily content. Participants gained hands-on experience by conducting mock interviews and drafting their own news reports.
The programme concluded with interactive book-marketing pitches designed to test participants' promotional and public communication skills.
Workshop coordinator Liavirhii Movi, in her remarks, highlighted the vast, untapped potential of Naga youth in research and the necessity of translating complex ideas into impactful publications.
At the valedictory session, Professor Limatemjen, Dean of Sciences at Kohima Science College, expressed gratitude to the resource persons and challenged attendees to diligently apply their newly acquired skills to elevate the standard of scientific literature emerging from the state. Certificates were distributed to all participants.
