A relatively recent concept, science centres are fast becoming model institutions for non-formal learning alongside their more traditional role of being custodians of the nation's scientific and technological heritage. While the traditional science museums emphasise on preservation of objects of scientific value, the science centres explore the logic of science by way of interactive participation by the visitor. A sense of exploration and discovery is in-built in the approach of a science centre and therefore, the learning process is self-motivated and pleasurable. Science centres are thus increasingly being recognised as befitting complements to the formal education system in today's society. A proposal for setting up a science centre in Mauritius was first mooted in 1992 for the purpose of popularising science and technology among the people of Mauritius. The Indian Government readily agreed to assist in implementing the project and identified the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) as the nodal agency in India for rendering such assistance to Mauritius . The project was retained at the VII th session of the Indo-Mauritian Joint Commission in January 1994. Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre Trust Fund was set up by an Act in 1994. The laying of the foundation stone ceremony was held on the 6th April 1995 in the presence of Mrs. Sonia Gandhi. |
The Memorandum of Understanding for setting up the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre in Mauritius was signed on the 3 rd October 1998 , between the NCSM and the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development. This marked the beginning of the first science centre in Mauritius . The Indian Government, through NCSM, has provided exhibits on donation, trained key staff and helped in the planning of the Science Centre. The Government of Mauritius has provided land, building, furniture & equipment and meets the running cost of the centre. The official launching of the construction of the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre was done on the 9th August 2001 by the then Prime Minister, Sir Aneerood Jugnauth. The Centre was inaugurated on 30th November 2004 by Mrs. Sonia Gandhi. |
