Shillong: In an effort to promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education among students in Meghalaya, the North East Centre for Technology Application and Research (NECTAR) in collaboration with Smart Village Movement (SVM) and IISER Pune will host a one-day workshop and student exhibition under its STEM Fusion initiative on August 18 at the State Convention Centre, Shillong.
The exhibition aims to provide hands-on learning experiences and access to technology to bridge gaps in math and science education.
It will also create a platform for students to showcase their innovative projects. Students from nearly 80 schools and colleges across the state will participate, showcasing 90 projects related to STEM education.
“Students in Meghalaya lack in subjects like math and science. Through STEM learning, we want to offer practical exposure and make learning more engaging,” said Divine Dkhar, Project Lead Education for Smart Village Movement, while speaking to Northeast News.
This year’s exhibition is expected to be larger than previous editions, with teachers also playing an active role. “Teachers will have dedicated sessions with STEM experts. The goal is to train both students and educators,” Dkhar added.
In addition to the exhibition, the event will raise awareness about the Open STEM Lab at Barik Point, Shillong, encouraging students to use its facilities.
“Most schools do not have STEM labs. This initiative will allow students to use the lab from Monday to Saturday, guided by a dedicated trainer,” Dkhar informed.
The exhibition does not have a fixed theme, giving students the freedom to explore a wide range of ideas and projects.
The event will kick off at 8:30 am and run until 3:35 pm, featuring a packed schedule of activities and interactive sessions.
The programme will begin with registration, followed by the arrival of dignitaries and a keynote address by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. After the National Anthem, the STEM Exhibition and Competition will be inaugurated.
Students and teachers will take part in multiple STEM activities, including STEM Vision Exchange, Science and Math Fun Sessions, and Engineering and Technology demonstrations by IISER Pune.
The event will also feature an overview of initiatives from the NECTAR STEM Education Hub, led by Smart Village Movement and Curiosity Gym.
Post-lunch sessions will include a hands-on Machine Learning game, conducted by Dr. S. Muthukumaran, Head of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at NIT Tiruchirappalli.
Later in the day, participants will attend a Drone Awareness session, before the program concludes with a valedictory function at 3 pm.
