Panjimogaru: An advanced STEM laboratory and solar power system have been inaugurated at the Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Government Model Higher Primary School in Panjimogaru, Mangaluru taluk.
This marks a significant milestone as one of the first government primary schools to implement such a modern setup.
The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) laboratory is a modern learning center that integrates these subjects through practical application. The well-equipped lab includes apparatus for physics, such as magnetism, light, sound, and simple machines; biology and chemistry models including anatomical structures of the heart and brain; chemistry learning kits; and electronics components like circuits, motors, and wave motion demonstrators.
What is the objective?
Students perform experiments firsthand using the equipment provided, supplemented by appropriate training. For instance, they learn to build robots or assemble electrical circuits. This encourages students to view problems from different angles and find technical solutions, fostering a scientific temperament and providing a platform for new inventions. It also teaches skills required for future technical careers and helps simplify complex mathematical and scientific formulas.
Solar-powered inverter
In addition to the lab, the school has been equipped with a solar-based backup system. Currently, three classrooms have access to solar power backup during electricity outages. This state-of-the-art STEM lab and solar-powered UPS system were established with funding from the JSW Foundation and the design and implementation expertise of IEEE India Philanthropy.
Helpful for high school students too
The school has a total of 350 students from LKG to 7th grade, offering education in both English and Kannada media. While the new science lab currently benefits 6th and 7th-grade students, it will be even more useful in the future. Headmistress Vani stated that as the school is set to be upgraded to a "Karnataka Public School," the STEM lab will significantly assist high school students as well.
Highly beneficial
"The launch of a STEM lab and solar backup in a government primary school is a first for the district. It will be extremely beneficial for the children. The solar backup will also support our smart classes. We are considering extending this solar power to provide additional lighting as needed in the future," said Vani, Headmistress of Panjimogaru School.