Reported on:
2025-11-06
The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Farook College (Autonomous), Kozhikode, organized a Two-Day RUSA Sponsored Workshop for Laboratory Assistants and Staff on the theme “Enhancing Laboratory Skills and Safety Practices in Modern Science Labs” on 5–6 November 2025 at AVT Hall, Farook College.
The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. Aysha Swapna, Principal, Farook College, who highlighted the growing importance of skill-based training and safe working environments in modern laboratories. Dr. M. Abdul Jaleel, Workshop Coordinator, delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives of the programme.
The first day featured technical sessions by Mr. Jemshihas A. P., Demonstrator at AKNM Government Polytechnic College Tirurangadi, who led an engaging session on Electronics Lab Maintenance and Orientation. His demonstration on the maintenance and calibration of instruments such as microscopes, spectrometers, and balances was well received. The afternoon session was handled by Adv. K. P. Sunil Kumar (IMG Calicut), who briefed participants on Kerala Service Rules (KSR), offering useful insights into administrative procedures related to service conditions and leave rules.
The second day included a detailed session by Dr. Anees K., Senior Scientist, ICAR–IISR Calicut, on Laboratory Safety and Housekeeping. The session emphasized biological and chemical hazard management, safe handling protocols, and emergency response techniques.
An important highlight of the programme was a guided laboratory visit where participants toured the RUSA-funded Advanced Research Laboratory, the Zoology Lab, and the Geology Lab. Briefings were given by Dr. Reji Thomas, Dr. Habeeb Rahman, and Dr. Babeesh, respectively, allowing participants to observe modern equipment, safety installations, and standard operating procedures in real lab settings.
During the valedictory session held on the final day, participants expressed high appreciation for the hands-on training, expert sessions, and the opportunity to interact with specialists from multiple fields. Certificates were distributed by the Principal, who congratulated all participants for actively engaging with the sessions.
The workshop successfully fulfilled its objective of strengthening technical competence, safety awareness, and professional knowledge among laboratory staff. The IQAC has announced that similar capacity-building programmes will be planned in the future to support non-teaching staff development under institutional academic enhancement initiatives.
