adminThe Department of Mathematics at Akal University, Talwandi Sabo, successfully hosted Day 1 of “Pi Day and Math Mela 4.0” on March 16, 2026. This vibrant department society event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of around 200 students, aiming to foster mathematical thinking and spark curiosity among young minds.
Organized under the visionary guidance of Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. Gurmail Singh, the two-day event set the tone for an inspiring journey into the world of mathematics.
Warm Welcome and Insightful Opening
The event commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. Sukhpreet Kaur Sidhu, Head of the Department of Mathematics and Event Coordinator. She introduced the distinguished guest speaker, Prof. Manoj Thakur, Professor at the Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, and highlighted the importance of celebrating Pi Day through engaging initiatives like Math Mela 4.0.
Dr. Sidhu also shared a detailed roadmap of the two-day event, building excitement among participants for the upcoming sessions and competitions.
Inspiring Address by Academic Leadership
Adding prestige to the occasion, Maj. Gen. (Dr.) G. S. Lamba, Dean Academic Affairs, addressed the gathering. He welcomed the guest speaker and emphasized the significance of mathematics and the constant presence of π in our daily lives. His motivating words encouraged students to explore mathematics with curiosity, dedication, and a problem-solving mindset.
Expert Talk – “Mathematics is Everywhere”
The highlight of the day was the expert lecture by Prof. Manoj Thakur, titled:
“Mathematics is Everywhere: The Ubiquity of π in the Real World.”
In this engaging and insightful session, Prof. Thakur beautifully connected mathematical concepts with real-life applications. Starting from the basics of numbers, he gradually demonstrated how mathematics plays a vital role in everyday situations.
He elaborated on the historical importance and practical relevance of π (Pi), inspiring students to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject.
Real-World Learning Through Interaction and Programming
What made the session truly impactful was the interactive approach adopted by Prof. Thakur. He actively engaged students through:
- Real-life examples of mathematical applications
- Interactive questions and discussions
- Demonstrations of problem-solving using programming
Additionally, he shared valuable experiences from premier institutions like IITs, giving students a glimpse into academic excellence, curriculum structure, and research opportunities.
A Note of Gratitude
The session concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Sandeep Singh, Additional Dean Research. He expressed sincere appreciation to Prof. Thakur for his inspiring presence and for delivering a lecture that motivated students to explore the beauty and relevance of mathematics.
Exciting Competitions Spark Student Creativity
Following the expert talk, the day continued with two engaging competitions:
- Mathematics Quiz Competition
- Poster-Making Competition
Students participated with great enthusiasm, showcasing their creativity, analytical skills, and mathematical knowledge. The winners will be honored during the award ceremony on the final day of the event.
A Successful Start to Math Mela 4.0
Day 1 of Pi Day and Math Mela 4.0 concluded on a highly positive note, leaving students inspired, motivated, and eager for the next day’s activities. The event successfully combined learning with fun, making mathematics more approachable and exciting for everyone involved.
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