PASIGHAT, 29 Sep: The department of mathematics and IQAC, Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC), Pasighat, in collaboration with Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, and Dera Natung Government College (DNGC), Itanagar, launched a five-day residential 'Mathematical Thinking Camp (MTC-2026)' at JNC here in East Siang district on Tuesday.

The camp, being held from 29 September to 3 October, is being organised under the aegis of the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), TIFR Mumbai, with support from the National Board for Higher Mathematics (NBHM), Government of India, and the DBT star college programme and IQAC of JNC.

Addressing the inaugural function, APU Registrar Narmi Darang appreciated the initiative, stating that mathematics forms the foundation of several disciplines, including economics, commerce, computer science and the sciences. He encouraged the participants to develop their mathematical aptitude, and informed that APU has already introduced MSc and PhD programmes in mathematics.

JNC Vice Principal Dr Leki Sitang urged the students to work hard, remain confident and not be discouraged by difficult problems.

JNC Mathematics HoD Dr Gete Umbrey said that the camp aims at "nurturing problem-solvers, critical thinkers and innovators of tomorrow."

Highlighting the importance of mathematics in the age of artificial intelligence, he said a deeper understanding of mathematics would enable young minds to become creators of technology, rather than merely consumers.

Dr Umbrey informed also that MTC-2026 is the second HBCSE mathematical camp in the region, following the first three-day camp held in Roing in 2024. He further highlighted the growing Mathematical Olympiad movement in Arunachal and informed that efforts are being made to establish an INMO examination centre in the state, preferably in Pasighat.

DNGC Assistant Professor Botem Moyong urged the participants to actively participate in the sessions.

The five-day camp is being attended by meritorious students of Class 7 to 10, selected from schools across the state. The participants will take part in lectures and hands-on sessions conducted by experts from reputed institutions. (DIPRO)