IIT (ISM) team conducts STEM outreach programme for PAP students in Dhanbad
On March 14, 2026, a dedicated team from the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad (IIT (ISM)) organized an engaging STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) outreach programme aimed at students from project-affected families in the Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) areas. This initiative, held at the HS Bhulinagar school, was designed to foster interest in scientific principles among students from Classes IX and X.
Programme Overview
The outreach programme witnessed participation from 85 enthusiastic students who were introduced to various scientific concepts through hands-on demonstrations and experiments conducted by faculty members from IIT (ISM). The event was coordinated by Professor Rashmi Singh from the Department of Management Studies and Industrial Engineering, who emphasized the importance of making science accessible and engaging for young minds.
Experiments Conducted
During the session, students participated in three interactive experiments that showcased fundamental scientific principles:
- Balloon Blow-Up Experiment: This experiment demonstrated how carbon dioxide produced by the reaction of baking soda and vinegar can inflate a balloon, illustrating the concept of chemical reactions.
- Candle Water Rising Experiment: This experiment showed how a burning candle can create a vacuum that draws water into a container, teaching students about air pressure and combustion.
- Turmeric as a Natural pH Indicator Experiment: Students learned how turmeric can change color in the presence of acids and bases, providing a practical application of chemistry in everyday life.
Goals of the Outreach Programme
The primary objective of the outreach programme was to cultivate a scientific mindset among the students. Professor Niladri Das, co-coordinator of the project, highlighted that the initiative aims to empower students with the necessary tools and knowledge to pursue further education and careers in STEM fields. He stated, “Our comprehensive approach is designed to arouse the interest of students toward science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning.”
Collaboration with BCCL
This outreach effort is part of a broader collaborative initiative between IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) under the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. The partnership aims to promote STEM education among students from project-affected families, ensuring that they have access to quality education and resources that can enhance their learning experience.
Future Initiatives
Following the success of this initial session, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad plans to organize similar outreach programmes in other schools within the region. The goal is to reach a wider audience of students and inspire them to explore the exciting world of science and technology.
Conclusion
The STEM outreach programme conducted by IIT (ISM) Dhanbad represents a significant step towards bridging the educational gap for students from project-affected families. By providing hands-on learning experiences and fostering an interest in STEM subjects, the initiative not only empowers students but also contributes to the development of a scientifically literate society. The commitment of IIT (ISM) and BCCL to enhance educational opportunities for these students is commendable and sets a precedent for similar initiatives in the future.
Note: This article is based on information available as of March 2026 and aims to highlight the importance of STEM education in fostering scientific curiosity among young learners.
