IIT Jammu Hosts School Students on Educational Outreach Visit
On December 22, 2025, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jammu welcomed 50 students along with their escorts from various educational institutions including Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Reasi, Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Reasi, and GHSS Aghar Jitto Reasi. This visit was part of the educational outreach initiative under the Vigyan Jyoti Scheme, designed to inspire and encourage meritorious girl students to pursue education and careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Purpose of the Vigyan Jyoti Scheme
The Vigyan Jyoti Scheme aims to foster interest among young women in STEM disciplines, addressing the gender gap in these critical fields. By providing exposure to advanced educational environments and practical applications of scientific concepts, the program seeks to empower girls to envision a future in science and technology.
Organizers and Support
The educational visit was organized by the Department of Outreach and Skill Development at IIT Jammu. The initiative was supported by key personnel including:
- Prof Manoj Singh Gaur – Director, IIT Jammu
- Prof Meenakshi Rajeev – Dean, Outreach and Skill Development
- Dr Sameer K S Pachalla – Associate Dean
Exploring State-of-the-Art Laboratories
During their visit, students had the opportunity to explore the state-of-the-art laboratories within the Departments of Civil Engineering and Electrical Engineering. Here, they engaged in hands-on demonstrations conducted by engineers and technical staff. The sessions introduced the students to key scientific concepts related to:
- Construction materials
- Civil structures
- Practical applications of signals and electric current
Interactive Learning Session
An interactive session was led by Dr Sarada Prasad Gochhayat, a faculty member from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Dr Gochhayat encouraged students to draw inspiration from the lives of eminent scientists and innovators, emphasizing the importance of curiosity-driven learning.
During this session, he highlighted the real-world relevance of scientific concepts and offered insights into emerging technologies, including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Innovation and problem-solving
- Future career opportunities in technology-driven fields
Engaging Question-and-Answer Session
The educational visit concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session. This interactive segment allowed students to clarify their doubts and gain deeper insights into various STEM disciplines. The enthusiasm displayed by the students was evident, as many expressed their newfound inspiration and eagerness to explore higher education opportunities in STEM.
Impact on Students
The outreach visit not only provided students with exposure to advanced scientific concepts but also aimed to instill a sense of confidence and ambition. By interacting with faculty and experiencing the facilities at IIT Jammu, the students left with a better understanding of the potential pathways available to them in the fields of science and technology.
Conclusion
The initiative taken by IIT Jammu under the Vigyan Jyoti Scheme exemplifies the commitment to fostering educational opportunities for young women in STEM. By providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and encouraging curiosity-driven learning, IIT Jammu is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of aspiring female scientists and engineers.
Note: The Vigyan Jyoti Scheme is a significant step towards bridging the gender gap in STEM fields, and initiatives like these are crucial for empowering the next generation of women in science and technology.
