Govt school kids get platforms to explore scientific ideas

Chennai: Latha S wanted to know what her students thought about using technology to solve real-world problems and asked them. The science teacher at a govt school in Saidapet found many of the answers interesting. Some suggested using it to correct answer sheets, others said it can manage traffic, while one thought it could improve storing data in hospitals.
The school education department announced that govt higher secondary school students will get platforms to explore many such ideas and turn classroom experiments into patent-worthy innovations. "We want to give students the opportunity to turn their ideas into real-world solutions. By fostering creativity and practical learning, we hope to create a research-driven environment in govt schools," said S Kannappan, director of school education.
Earlier this month, a Class X student from Salem modified a regular bicycle into a battery-powered one through his school's science club, gaining attention from teachers statewide. "Our children have great ideas. It's not just about marks but giving students hands-on experience that will shape their future," the student's mother Chandra Senthil said.
Competency-based education is seen as a critical shift, with school management committees highlighting the need for dynamic leadership to adapt teaching methods to evolving trends. "There are bright minds in our classrooms, and we need dynamic leaders who recognize evolving trends and encourage teachers to improve their methods," said Kishore Kumar, chairman of St John's Schools. Teachers also see the initiative as a game-changer. "Students who often lack exposure to cutting-edge developments will now have the confidence to pursue ambitious projects. We have asked the department to bring industry experts to talk to our children," said Ravi Kumar, a science teacher at a govt school in Pallavaram.
The school education department says students can also participate in aptitude tests, improving their chances of securing admission to higher education institutions. "The tests are essential for students to compete at the national level. With better preparation, we can bridge the gap between govt and private school students," said school education minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi.