THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Dhanbad, April 25: The Indian Institute of Technology (ISM), Dhanbad, organised a day-long STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) outreach and motivation programme at Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV), Jharia, benefiting around 250 students and teachers from Classes IX, X and XII.
The programme was conducted under a CSR initiative of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), focusing on children of Project Affected Persons (PAP). It aimed to promote scientific temper, strengthen conceptual understanding and develop analytical skills through innovative and hands-on learning methods.
Focus on Experiential Learning
The session was led by Prof. Rashmi Singh, Programme Coordinator, and Prof. Niladri Das, Co-Coordinator, from the Department of Management Studies and Industrial Engineering, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
The programme emphasised experiential learning by combining visual, logical and experimental approaches to make science more engaging. Students participated in demonstrations such as Balloon Blow-Up, Candle Water Rising, Turmeric Indicator, Elephant Toothpaste and Lava Lamp experiments.
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These activities helped explain scientific concepts like gas formation, air pressure, oxygen consumption, chemical reactions, pH indicators, density differences and fluid motion through practical examples.
Officials and School Welcome Initiative
Senior BCCL officials, including Director (HR) Murli Krishna Ramaiah and General Manager (CSR) Surendra Bhushan, along with CSR team members Kumar Manoj and Abhijeet Mitra, were present during the programme.
Prof. Rashmi Singh highlighted that science education becomes more effective when students can observe and experiment directly. Prof. Niladri Das added that such initiatives help build curiosity and prepare students for higher education and careers in STEM fields.
School Principal Sunita Shaw and faculty members appreciated the initiative, noting that interactive sessions significantly improve students’ interest and confidence in science.
Part of Ongoing Outreach Efforts
The programme is part of an ongoing collaboration between IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and BCCL to expand STEM education in coalfield regions. Similar outreach activities have recently been conducted in other schools, including DPLMA High School in Nawagarh.
Officials said more such programmes are planned to promote inclusive and practical education in the region.