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Ideas@Neev – Neev School

Neev School

Ideas@Neev

Ideas@Neev

About Ideas@Neev

Ideas@Neev is a monthly lecture series designed as a platform for students to connect with industry experts, enriching their education with real-world insights. This series supplements the traditional curriculum by introducing students to diverse fields, fostering a practical understanding of how knowledge is applied beyond the classroom. Through Ideas@Neev, students have the opportunity to explore their interests, engage with varied perspectives, and acquire knowledge that goes beyond textbooks. Our goal is to nurture adaptable, well-informed individuals equipped to make a meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving India and to contribute positively to society.

Academic Year 2023-24

Dr. Steve Minchin

Associate Professor Biosciences University
of Birmingham

Dr. Steve Minchin delved into the complex world of genetics, specifically focusing on mutations. This lecture aimed to demystify the role of mutations in biological systems and their implications for human health, agriculture, and biodiversity. Mutations, often perceived as mere biological errors, were highlighted as critical drivers of evolutionary change and genetic diversity. By examining how mutations occur and their consequences, the lecture connected theoretical knowledge from biology curricula to real-world applications, enhancing students' understanding and sparking curiosity about genetic research and its vast potential in modern science. The choice of this topic aligned with Ideas@Neev’s mission to bridge academic knowledge with practical, real-world applications, preparing students for future scientific challenges.

  • Students left Dr. Steve Minchin's lecture with an enhanced understanding of the scientific and practical implications of genetic mutations.
  • Dr. Minchin discussed the fundamental role of mutations in biological diversity and medical advancements.
  • He connected classroom genetics to real-world applications, such as genetic engineering and disease treatment.
  • His explanation illustrated how mutations drive evolutionary change and also cause various genetic disorders.
  • The lecture illuminated the dual nature of genetic mutations, highlighting both their beneficial and harmful effects.
  • Students were encouraged to appreciate the complexity of biological systems and consider the ethical and scientific challenges in genetics-related fields.
  • This lecture paved the way for future studies or careers in biotechnology, medicine, and environmental science.

Dr. Sanjeev Chopra

Author, Former Director - Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration

Dr. Sanjeev Chopra’s lecture explored the dynamic interplay between geographical, political, and cultural boundaries and the adaptability and opportunities they present. This topic provided students with a nuanced understanding of how boundaries influence national and international relations and the importance of adaptability in the global context. By discussing real-world examples of boundary reconfigurations and their impact on societies, the lecture fostered a deeper understanding of global geopolitics and the strategic thinking required to navigate such environments. The focus on adaptability and opportunities encouraged students to think critically about change and resilience, which are central to thriving in a rapidly evolving world.

  • Students gained a nuanced perspective on the role of boundaries in shaping societal and political landscapes from Dr. Sanjeev Chopra’s lecture.
  • Dr. Chopra's insights demonstrated how countries navigate their historical, cultural, and political boundaries to carve out opportunities in a globalized world.
  • He highlighted the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in this process.
  • His discussion of case studies on boundary negotiations and their implications for international relations and internal governance provided concrete examples.
  • The lecture underscored the importance of understanding and managing boundaries for any aspiring policy-maker or leader.
  • This session enhanced students' geopolitical literacy and equipped them with the analytical tools to understand and potentially shape the complex sociopolitical fabric of the world.

Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa

Political Scientist, Author

Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa addressed the pivotal role of hard power in geopolitics. This lecture examined how military and economic strength shapes international relationships and domestic policies. By exploring the strategic uses of hard power in current geopolitical scenarios, the session enhanced students' understanding of the complex interdependencies that govern world affairs. The topic was chosen to encourage critical thinking about power dynamics and their implications, helping students grasp the real-world complexities of international relations and defense strategies. This aligned with Ideas@Neev's goal of providing a deep, contextual understanding of global issues, fostering informed and adaptive future leaders.

  • Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa provided students with a deep dive into the strategic dimensions of geopolitics and the use of hard power.
  • Her examination of current global power dynamics, including military and economic influences on international policies, gave students a clearer picture of the realpolitik driving many of the world’s interactions.
  • She discussed specific instances where hard power has shaped geopolitical outcomes, helping students understand the practical applications of political science theories they learn in class.
  • This lecture was particularly beneficial for those interested in careers in defense studies, international relations, or any field requiring an understanding of the balance of power in global affairs.

Tarun Mehta

Co-Founder & CEO, Ather Energy

Tarun Mehta’s lecture focused on the crucial roles of innovation, persistence, and adaptability in driving sustainable technological advancements. By sharing insights from his journey with Ather Energy, the discussion highlighted how these elements were integral to overcoming challenges and achieving long-term success in the clean energy sector. The choice of this topic aimed to inspire students to embrace these qualities in pursuit of sustainable solutions, reflecting Ideas@Neev’s commitment to fostering passion and resilience among young innovators. This lecture served as a platform to explore the intersection of technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurial spirit, crucial for navigating the complexities of the future.

  • Students took away crucial insights from Tarun Mehta’s presentation on the challenges and innovations in the electric vehicle (EV) sector in India.
  • His recount of Ather Energy's journey highlighted the importance of engineering and problem-solving in transforming the EV landscape.
  • By sharing his experiences in overcoming technical and market challenges and establishing a comprehensive charging infrastructure, Tarun illustrated the power of innovation and strategic thinking.
  • He emphasized sustainability and the role of supportive ecosystems in fostering innovation, providing students with a practical understanding of how perseverance and adaptive strategies are essential for success in technology and entrepreneurship.
  • This session inspired students to consider how they might leverage innovation in their future careers to contribute to sustainable development.

Shalini Umachandran

Editor at Mint Lounge, Author

Shalini Umachandran presented on the interconnections between journalism, public discourse, and democracy. This lecture illuminated the role of journalism in shaping public opinion and maintaining democratic values in society. By discussing the challenges and responsibilities of journalists in today’s digital age, the session encouraged critical thinking about media consumption and the impact of journalism on democratic practices. The topic was particularly relevant in the context of nurturing informed citizens, aligning with Ideas@Neev’s mission to cultivate self-aware, knowledgeable individuals who can contribute positively to democratic discourse.

  • Shalini Umachandran's lecture offered students insightful perspectives on the integral role of journalism in shaping public discourse and upholding democratic principles.
  • She discussed the challenges faced by journalists in the digital age and the impact of media on democratic processes.
  • Students were encouraged to critically evaluate the sources of their information and recognize potential biases.
  • Her emphasis on ethical journalism and the media’s role in educating the public fostered a sense of responsibility among students.
  • The lecture inspired students interested in media careers to pursue journalism with integrity and purpose.
  • This session reinforced the power of informed reporting in shaping public opinion and policy, an essential takeaway for future journalists and informed citizens.

Professor Lant Pritchett

Development economist

Professor Lant Pritchett’s lecture explored the crucial role of state institutions in shaping development outcomes and building capabilities. This session addressed how effective institutions are fundamental to achieving sustainable economic growth and equitable development. By examining different models of state functionality and their impact on development, the lecture provided students with a framework for understanding the importance of governance and institutional integrity in fostering prosperity. This topic was selected to encourage a deeper appreciation of the structural challenges and opportunities in developing contexts, essential for students aiming to contribute to policy-making and governance, reflecting Ideas@Neev’s vision of empowering students to make meaningful societal contributions.

  • Professor Lant Pritchett, alongside Manish Sabharwal, provided students with a comprehensive analysis of the factors that differentiate the economic prosperity of nations.
  • A key focus of the lecture was Professor Pritchett's explanation of institutions as essential platforms that facilitate human collaboration by reducing transaction costs associated with interactions.
  • This insight helped students understand how effectively designed institutions are crucial in fostering economic activities and supporting development, irrespective of political stability.
  • He advocated for robust economic institutions that can endure political changes, emphasizing their role in ensuring long-term development.
  • The discussion concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where Professor Pritchett and Mr. Sabharwal addressed student inquiries about the definitions of development and explored the underlying causes of economic disparities between countries.
  • This lecture expanded the students' understanding of global economic structures and equipped them with a nuanced perspective on the interplay between institutions and economic growth.

Academic Year 2024-25

Dr. Jahnavi Phalkey

Founding Director of the Science Gallery, Bengaluru

Dr. Jahnavi Phalkey is a renowned historian of science and technology whose work has profoundly enriched our understanding of the relationship between science, technology, and society. As the Founding Director of the Science Gallery Bengaluru, she has been pivotal in fostering public engagement with science through inventive exhibitions and programs, merging scientific inquiry with creativity and public dialogue. Dr. Phalkey's distinguished academic career includes a Ph.D. in History from the Georgia Institute of Technology, with past roles as a Senior Lecturer at King’s College London and a Research Fellow at Wissenschaftskolleg zu Berlin. Her research primarily focuses on the history of science in India, particularly the evolution of big science in the twentieth century.

  • Crises have the power to significantly accelerate scientific research and technological advancements. Historical examples such as the Green Revolution and the Manhattan Project illustrate how urgent challenges drive rapid development. The Manhattan Project, for instance, brought together leading scientists and substantial resources to develop atomic weapons swiftly due to World War II pressures. Understanding this dynamic shows how crises can focus efforts and resources, leading to breakthroughs that might otherwise take much longer to achieve.
  • The relationship between science, state policy, and human behavior is complex and interdependent. Scientific research is often shaped by geopolitical considerations and state needs, as seen in the development of nuclear weapons and the establishment of research institutions like India’s Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. Human behavior and political factors influence how research is conducted and applied, resulting in both intended and unintended outcomes.
  • Scientific progress is deeply influenced by historical events and global dynamics. The Cold War, the achievements of the USSR, and various global crises demonstrate how international competition and cooperation drive scientific innovation. Historical figures like Pandurang Khankhoje, who worked in Mexico and contributed to agricultural research that influenced the Green Revolution in India, highlight how individual contributions and historical movements shape scientific advancements.

Dr. Spenta Wadia

Founding Director, International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), Bengaluru

Dr. Spenta Wadia is a distinguished theoretical physicist and the Founding Director of the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS) in Bengaluru, India. With a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago, he has made pioneering contributions in quantum gravity, string theory, and black hole physics. As a former faculty member at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), he played a crucial role in advancing theoretical physics in India and establishing ICTS as a leading hub for interdisciplinary research. His work is internationally recognized, and he continues to inspire new developments in the field.

  • The session traced the evolution of scientific understanding, highlighting major breakthroughs from Newton to Einstein that shaped our current view of time, space, and motion.
  • Students were introduced to key concepts, including: The relativity of time and space Gravitational time dilation
  • Real-world applications, such as GPS technology, were used to demonstrate how these theories impact daily life.
  • Through engaging discussions, students developed a deeper appreciation for how scientific knowledge builds progressively, linking abstract theories to practical experiences to enhance their understanding of modern physics.

Dr. Ravi Bapna

Business Analytics at the University of Minnesota and Indian School of Business

Dr. Ravi Bapna is a leading expert in Business Analytics at the University of Minnesota and Indian School of Business. He collaborates with top companies like OkCupid, eBay, and Infosys, applying data science and AI to real-world challenges. He also directs the Analytics for Good Institute and Carlson Analytics Lab, managing impactful projects with over 90 companies.

  • Dr. Bapna emphasized the importance of mastering AI fundamentals, especially data engineering, to unlock AI’s transformative potential in areas like predictive and generative applications, enabling real-world solutions in healthcare and recommendation systems.
  • The need for ethical AI development, addressing biases in algorithms and the role of reinforcement learning in reducing them. Dr. Bapna urged developers to prioritize fairness and inclusivity to ensure AI benefits society.
  • Importance of balancing AI skills with human qualities like empathy and integrity to succeed in an AI-driven world.

Dr. Mahesh Rangarajan

Professor at Ashoka University

Dr. Mahesh Rangarajan, Professor at Ashoka University, is a leading environmental historian focused on India’s ecological and socio-political landscape. His notable works, like India’s Wildlife History, explore conservation, colonial impacts, and policy effects on communities. Formerly Vice-Chancellor at Krea University, he is recognized for shaping interdisciplinary studies and contributing to environmental policy discussions.

  • India blends cultural respect, practical adaptation, and modern conservation to connect with nature.
  • Animals like tigers, lions, and elephants symbolize power and spirituality, shaping India’s conservation ethics.
  • Industrialization changed farming methods, but conservation in India focuses on finding ways for humans and wildlife to coexist, especially in rural areas.
  • Initiatives like Project Tiger balance modern conservation with cultural ties, involving local communities in protecting nature.
  • Dr. Rangarajan highlights India’s commitment to respectful, adaptive, and community-centered conservation, providing a model of sustainability for the world.

Rahul Sagar

Author of To Raise a Fallen People and Professor of Global Networks at NYU Abu Dhabi

Dr. Rahul Sagar is a distinguished author, educator, and scholar with an illustrious career spanning prestigious institutions such as Oxford, Harvard, NYU Abu Dhabi, and Yale-NUS Singapore. He is the author of To Raise a Fallen People, a thought- provoking exploration of India’s political, economic, and cultural trajectory. With extensive global experience, Dr. Sagar has lived and worked in countries like England, the US, Singapore, China, and Abu Dhabi, shaping his unique perspective on governance, leadership, and global citizenship.

  • Embracing one’s identity and heritage is vital for personal growth and shaping India’s future. Educated citizens making thoughtful choices can propel the nation toward global leadership.
  • Staying curious, humble, and open to learning is key to growth. Sagar emphasized the importance of continuous knowledge-seeking for meaningful contributions and effective leadership.
  • A united society thrives on collaboration and understanding. Sagar urged students to overcome divides of gender, wealth, culture, and language, fostering inclusivity through shared support and diverse perspectives.

David Walliams

English comedian, actor, writer, and television personality

David Walliams OBE is a bestselling children's author with over 37 million books sold in 53 languages. Many of his works, including Ratburger, Gangsta Granny, and Billionaire Boy, have been adapted for TV. Known for Little Britain and other hit shows, he’s also a dedicated philanthropist, raising over £8.5 million for Comic Relief through remarkable challenges like swimming the English Channel. Honored with an OBE for his contributions to charity and the arts, David continues to inspire readers worldwide

  • Understanding how writers develop characters.
  • Exploring how people and experiences inspire stories.
  • Learning to build on details and expand them creatively.
  • Gaining insight into the storytelling process.