Springer Nature launches RISE initiative at SOA to boost research integrity

Bhubaneswar, Aug 27: Springer Nature today unveiled its Research Integrity in Science and Education (RISE) initiative at the Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Deemed to be University (SOA) in Bhubaneswar. Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida, praised the initiative for fostering a supportive research environment in higher education.

The RISE initiative, focused on improving accessibility, empowerment, advocacy, and cultural shifts in research practices, aims to enhance integrity in Indian research communities. The event marks the beginning of the India Research Tour 2024, which will feature workshops, knowledge sessions, and training across the country next month.

Parida highlighted the importance of the conclave in facilitating dialogue and collaboration, aligning with India's National Education Policy 2020. She emphasized the need for innovative and sustainable solutions in academia.

The conclave was organized in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), the Ministry of Education, and SOA. Key figures included Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and Mr. Steven Inchcoombe, President of Research at Springer Nature.

Parida also launched Springer Nature’s landing page and the India Research Tour 2024, which will visit ten states and 16 cities, featuring events at 28 prominent institutions. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in a message read at the event, endorsed the RISE initiative for its role in enhancing research integrity and democratizing access to resources.

The conclave saw the signing of MoUs, including an agreement with SOA for Springer Nature’s Cureus Journal of Medical Sciences and Fully Open Access Journals. Notably, the event featured the handover of responsibilities from Dr. Yatendra Singh Chaudhary of CSIR-IMMT to SOA Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nanda and ICSSR Member Secretary.

Prof. Sitharam stressed the importance of maintaining research ethics amidst technological advancements like AI, while Mr. Inchcoombe reaffirmed Springer Nature’s commitment to upholding research integrity. Springer Nature’s goal is to integrate mandatory research integrity training into educational curricula and support transparent, high-quality research practices.