National Seminar on Microbial Innovations Towards Sustainable Solutions at St. Mary’s College, Thrissur

Thrissur, Kerala – St. Mary’s College (Autonomous), Thrissur, hosted a National Seminar on “Microbial Innovations Towards Sustainable Solutions” on October 6, 2025. Organized by the OBE Committee and the Departments of Life Sciences in association with the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), the seminar brought together leading experts, faculty, and students to explore the role of microbes in sustainability, agriculture, and biotechnology.

Event Highlights

The seminar featured renowned speakers from prestigious institutions:

• Dr. Mohamed Hatha Abdulla, Senior Professor (Retd.), Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry, CUSAT
• Dr. Rehna Augustine, Assistant Professor, Centre for Plant Biotechnology and Molecular Biology, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara
• Dr. Richa Agnihotri, Assistant Professor, Environmental Science and Sustainable Engineering Centre (ESSENCE), IIT Palakkad

Their sessions focused on microbial applications for climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and environmental management.

The seminar also marked the launch of the SMC-ASM Student Chapter, the first ASM-approved student chapter in Kerala and South India. This historic milestone reflects St. Mary’s College’s commitment to advancing microbial research and innovation.

Additionally, the edited book on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) titled Microbial Solutions to SDG Goals was released, highlighting the college’s dedication to research aligned with global sustainability priorities.

Student Achievements and Engagement

The seminar hosted an exhibition on “Microbiology and the Sustainable Development Goals”, showcasing student projects and innovative models that demonstrated the practical impact of microbial sciences.

A paper presentation competition encouraged students, research scholars, and faculty to share their insights, fostering academic interaction and innovative thinking.

Leadership Insights

Principal Sr Dr. Meena K. Cheruvathur delivered the presidential address, emphasizing the critical role of microbial research in achieving sustainable solutions. Vice Principals Sr Teseena P. Emmatty and Dr. Dalie Dominic A. felicitated the event and applauded the initiative.

The event was skillfully coordinated by Dr. C. R. Meera, supported by Dr. Anu P. A. and Dr. Greeshma P. V., along with the dedicated organizing committee from the Life Science Departments.

Sponsorship and Collaboration

The seminar was sponsored by ASM and co-sponsored by the CUSAT–NCPOR Centre for Polar Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT). It provided a platform for young scholars to learn, collaborate, and innovate in microbial sciences.

St. Mary’s College continues to lead Kerala’s academic landscape, promoting research, innovation, and sustainable solutions through microbial sciences.

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