IIT-Gn Team Installs Sundial at AMC School
Ahmedabad, India – In a remarkable initiative aimed at enhancing educational experiences, the Centre for Creative Learning (CCL) at IIT Gandhinagar (IIT-Gn) has successfully installed a sundial at Anupam Primary School No. 2 in Thaltej. This innovative project is designed to utilize the school building as a learning aid, fostering a deeper understanding of time among students.
About the Sundial Installation
The sundial, a timekeeping device that uses the position of the sun’s shadow to indicate the time, has been constructed using recycled materials, specifically a tyre. This eco-friendly approach not only serves a functional purpose but also promotes sustainability among students. The sundial features twelve distinct tiles, each representing one month of the year, allowing students to engage with the concept of time in a tangible way.
Engagement with the School Community
The installation of the sundial was met with enthusiastic participation from the school community. Students were actively involved in measuring time using the sundial, which provided them with a practical understanding of how shadows can indicate the passage of time. In addition to the outdoor exhibit, students engaged in creating paper sundials, which further reinforced their learning experience.
Learning Geometry and History
As part of the initiative, students explored the geometry involved in measuring time with sundials. This hands-on approach not only made learning more engaging but also helped students grasp mathematical concepts in a real-world context. Furthermore, the project included lessons on the contributions of notable Indian mathematicians such as Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, and Varahamihira, enriching the students’ understanding of the historical significance of timekeeping in Indian culture.
A Yearlong Educational Project
This sundial installation is part of a larger, yearlong project undertaken by the CCL in collaboration with the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). The initiative aims to reach over 60,000 middle-school students across 453 municipal schools in Ahmedabad. By integrating innovative learning tools like the sundial into the curriculum, the project seeks to enhance educational outcomes and inspire a love for learning among students.
Benefits of the Sundial Project
- Hands-on Learning: Students gain practical experience in measuring time, which enhances their understanding of the concept.
- Environmental Awareness: The use of recycled materials promotes sustainability and environmental consciousness among students.
- Historical Context: Learning about historical figures in mathematics enriches the educational experience and fosters cultural appreciation.
- Community Engagement: The project encourages collaboration between students, teachers, and the community, fostering a sense of belonging and teamwork.
Future Prospects
The success of the sundial installation at Anupam Primary School No. 2 serves as a model for future educational initiatives. As the CCL continues to work with AMC, there are plans to implement similar projects in other schools, further expanding the reach of innovative learning tools. By focusing on experiential learning, the initiative aims to cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students, preparing them for future challenges.
Conclusion
The installation of the sundial at Anupam Primary School No. 2 represents a significant step towards innovative education in Ahmedabad. By integrating hands-on learning experiences with historical insights, the project not only enhances students’ understanding of time but also fosters a greater appreciation for mathematics and science. As the CCL and AMC continue to collaborate, the potential for enriching educational experiences for thousands of students remains promising.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on a news report published by The Times of India on February 2, 2026.
