‘Quality STEM education is the right of every rural student’

Winners of competitions organised as part of National Mathematics Day being honoured at the government high school at Bhatambra in Bhalki taluk of Bidar district on Thursday.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The Kalaburagi Regional Centre of Karnataka State Council of Science and Technology (KSCST), in collaboration with the government high school at Bhatambra in Bhalki taluk of Bidar district, celebrated National Mathematics Day, at the latter’s premises on January 9. Various competitions, including poster presentations and model presentations related to mathematics, were conducted. Certificates and awards were distributed to the winners at the valedictory session. 

Gram Panchayat president Mahantesh Patil, who presided over the event, encouraged students to make the best use of such opportunities and expressed gratitude to the KSCST organisation. C.G. Hallad, Block Education Officer, Bhalki, who inaugurated the event, said recognising and nurturing the skills of students and fostering creativity in exploring new innovations at a young age were crucial in laying strong foundation for children’s future.

Syed Sameer, project engineer of KSCST, Bengaluru, who delivered the keynote address, told the students to enhance their knowledge through dedicated effort and teachers’ guidance.

“Quality STEM education [a teaching method involving science, technology, engineering and math] is the right of every rural student. Talents often emerge in government schools in rural areas. Students should learn mathematics using technology, highlighting various websites and mathematical applications available on the internet and Google Play Store,” he said emphasising the importance of health, hygiene, and nutrition, urging students to cultivate a scientific mindset.

Rajshekhar Matapathi, Dean of Skill Development and professor at Bheemanna Khandre Institute of Technology in Bhalki, advised the students to cultivate a learning mindset. He also elaborated on the importance of mathematics in daily life.

Medals, T-shirts, and certificates were distributed to all mathematical model and poster presentation competition winners. Students from different schools participated in the event.