FYUG B.SC. CHEMISTRY HONOURS INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME “GREEN STRATEGIES FOR ORGANIC FRAMEWORKS & NANOMATERIAL SYNTHESIS”

The Research and Postgraduate Department of Chemistry, MES Kalladi College (Autonomous), Mannarkkad, successfully organized a 10-day Internship Programme on “Green Strategies for Organic Frameworks & Nanomaterial Synthesis” from 16 April 2026 to 27 April 2026. The programme was conducted in alignment with the FYUGP B.Sc. Chemistry Honours curriculum, carrying a total of 60 hours and 2 credits, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning, green chemistry principles, and modern analytical techniques. The internship witnessed active participation from undergraduate students of B.Sc. Chemistry and Polymer Chemistry from MAMO College, Manassery, PSMO College, Tirurangadi, and PTM Government College, Perinthalmanna. The primary objective of the programme was to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in sustainable chemical synthesis, nanomaterial fabrication, and advanced analytical methods, thereby enhancing their research aptitude and employability. The internship programme was systematically structured to achieve key academic and skill-based objectives, including understanding the principles of green chemistry and sustainable synthesis, gaining hands-on experience in eco-friendly organic synthesis techniques, developing analytical skills using chromatographic and spectroscopic tools, training in the green synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, and introducing computational tools and data analysis software. The programme was organized into four modules, effectively integrating theoretical sessions with intensive laboratory training. The first module focused on green strategies in organic synthesis and characterization, where participants were introduced to the principles of green chemistry, atom economy, and sustainable methodologies. Advanced synthetic techniques such as microwave-assisted synthesis, ultrasound-assisted reactions, and solvent-free methods were demonstrated. Students were also trained in chromatographic techniques including Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and column chromatography, along with spectroscopic methods such as UV-Visible, IR, Fluorescence, NMR, and Mass Spectrometry. This module enabled participants to understand environmentally benign synthesis and scientifically interpret spectral data, including plotting and analysis of spectroscopic data using Origin software. The second module dealt with the green synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials. Students were introduced to the classification and properties of nanomaterials, including one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and three-dimensional systems, along with fundamental concepts such as quantum confinement and surface effects. Green synthesis methods such as sol–gel, hydrothermal, and plant-mediated techniques were discussed, and characterization methods including UV–Visible (DRS), IR, photoluminescence (PL), XRD, SEM, and TEM were explained with practical relevance. This module provided students with a conceptual understanding of nanoscience and its sustainable applications. The third module constituted the core practical component of the internship, focusing on organic framework synthesis. Students were actively engaged in TLC-based reaction monitoring, conventional and green synthesis of organic compounds, solvent-free grinding methods, and microwave- and ultrasound-assisted synthesis. They also prepared eco-friendly catalysts such as Chitosan/La nanocatalysts and carried out optimization of reaction conditions along with recyclability studies. In addition, participants were introduced to the basics of molecular docking, as well as UV and fluorescence studies for compound characterization. This module significantly enhanced their laboratory skills, analytical thinking, and ability to evaluate reaction efficiency and catalyst performance. The fourth module focused on the practical aspects of green nanomaterial synthesis. Students synthesized eco-friendly nanoparticles such as calcium oxide (CaO) nanoparticles derived from eggshell waste and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using plant-based methods such as ash gourd extract. They also conducted dye degradation studies to understand the environmental applications of nanomaterials. Training was provided in software tools such as OriginPro and ChemDraw for data analysis, graph plotting, and molecular visualization. This module reinforced the importance of sustainable approaches such as waste-to-wealth conversion and green nanotechnology. The programme adopted a learner-centric teaching–learning methodology that included interactive lectures, expert sessions, laboratory-based experiential learning, demonstrations, guided experiments, mini-projects, and ICT-enabled tools. This blended approach ensured both conceptual clarity and practical proficiency among participants. The assessment of students was carried out through a comprehensive evaluation system, including continuous laboratory assessment (30%), record and observation (20%), viva voce (20%), final practical examination (20%), and internship report (10%). The evaluation process was aligned with Outcome-Based Education (OBE) and Bloom’s Taxonomy to ensure measurable learning outcomes. The internship programme successfully achieved its intended outcomes, as students demonstrated a clear understanding of green chemistry principles and acquired hands-on expertise in modern synthetic and analytical techniques. They developed skills in data interpretation, catalyst evaluation, and reaction optimization, while also gaining exposure to research methodologies and computational tools. Furthermore, the programme enhanced their awareness of environmental sustainability and eco-friendly scientific practices. It also facilitated inter-institutional collaboration and provided a valuable platform for academic interaction and knowledge exchange. In conclusion, the FYUG B.Sc. Chemistry Honours Internship Programme on “Green Strategies for Organic Frameworks & Nanomaterial Synthesis” was a highly successful academic initiative. It effectively integrated theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering scientific curiosity, technical competence, and environmental consciousness among students. The programme reaffirmed the commitment of the Research and Postgraduate Department of Chemistry, MES Kalladi College (Autonomous), to promoting innovative, skill-oriented, and sustainable chemistry education in accordance with the evolving demands of higher education and research.