State Project Director of Samagra Shiksha and Director of School Education and Literacy, Meghalaya, Swapnil Tembe, inaugurated the new extended school hall of Mawngap District Christian Multipurpose Higher Secondary School, Shillong, on Thursday. The event was part of the STEM Innovation Hub Exhibition Program, featuring an exhibition tour and student presentations of various STEM projects, along with skill development demonstrations.
During his speech, Tembe stressed the importance of curiosity-driven learning, revealing that “out of 15,000 schools in Meghalaya, only two currently have curiosity gyms.” He encouraged students to take full advantage of these facilities, emphasizing that the National Education Policy (NEP) envisions similar spaces under the term Bal Chetna Kendras, which allow children to explore their innate curiosity. “Curiosity gym is exactly what NEP talks about, and we need more of these in Meghalaya,” he added.
Tembe also highlighted the existing Science Centre at NEHU (North-Eastern Hill University) in Shillong, which hosts a planetarium and other scientific resources. He suggested that a curiosity gym be established there to inspire students further.
Addressing the broader issue of science education in the state, he remarked, “Not many students in Meghalaya opt for science education.” He emphasized the variety of science-related schemes that offer scholarships and international opportunities, including the Inspire MANAK program and national-level science exhibitions. He urged students to explore these opportunities to broaden their horizons.
Tembe stressed the importance of applied science, particularly in daily life. “We need to learn the applied part of it. Science is important, but applied science is more important,” he said. He encouraged students to use their knowledge to solve real-world problems in their communities. He cited rainwater harvesting as an example, noting that despite Meghalaya receiving some of the highest rainfall in the country, water shortages persist. “If everyone adopts rainwater harvesting, we will not face these issues. The water can be redirected into groundwater, solving both water shortages and wastage.”
Curiosity Gym Education Foundation (CGEF) is on a mission to provide comprehensive skill-based education in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields for underprivileged school students. Introducing STEM education to students at the school level can broaden their understanding of the opportunities available to them and cultivate their interest in these fields. In addition, it can potentially decrease the rate of students leaving school early and foster the development of crucial 21st-century skills among learners.