Dhanbad: To bolster STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education at the grassroots level, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad hosted a comprehensive training program titled STEMNOVA, designed to enhance the teaching capabilities of over 70 educators from Dhanbad Public School.
The one-day workshop, held at the institute’s EDC Lounge, was inaugurated by Prof. Sukumar Mishra, who lit the ceremonial lamp to mark the beginning of the program. He emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, highlighting how STEM subjects must work in tandem with humanities and social sciences to translate innovation into societal impact.
The program was coordinated by Prof. Madhulika Gupta, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, and Nodal Officer for the Vigyan Jyoti Program of the Department of Science & Technology (DST).
Key dignitaries present included Prof. M.K. Singh, Dean (Academics), Prof. Parthasarathi Das, Head of the Chemistry and Chemical Biology Department, and Prof. Keka Ojha, Coordinator of the Continuing Education Program.
During the opening session, Prof. Singh stressed the vital role of teachers in nurturing student potential, advocating for compassionate mentorship over punitive discipline. Prof. Das, in his address, spoke on the relevance of chemistry in daily life and its pivotal role in scientific progress.
Prof. Madhulika Gupta acknowledged the contribution of Smt. Sharda Mahajan, Principal of Dhanbad Public School, for facilitating the collaboration aimed at upskilling school faculty and promoting experiential STEM education.
The training included engaging keynote lectures from Prof. Alok Das (Dean, Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship), Prof. Sanjiv Sahu (Head, Centre for Societal Mission), and Prof. Das. A highlight of the day was the interactive pedagogy session led by Prof. Gupta.
Participants also took part in hands-on innovation and tinkering workshops at the institute’s i2h (Innovation to Humanity) centre. The program concluded with a valedictory session and distribution of certificates to the participating teachers.
The initiative reflects IIT (ISM) Dhanbad’s commitment to nurturing future-ready educators and fostering scientific temperament at the school level.
