Bilaspur establishes space labs in schools to inspire young minds

The Bilaspur district administration is setting a new benchmark in educational innovation by establishing space labs in six senior secondary schools. The initiative aims to expose students to experiments and projects in space science, modeled on Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) missions. Following Bilaspur’s lead, the government has advised deputy commissioners of other districts to adopt similar initiatives.

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The space labs will provide students with insights into satellite missions, including GSAT launches, their applications, and their impact on Earth. One lab has already been established at a government school in Ghumarwin, while five new labs are under development in schools at Bilaspur, Namhol, Barthini, Kapahra and Dangar.

Deputy Commissioner Abid Hussain Sadiq shared that the labs, costing around Rs 12 lakh each, are being funded by HDFC Bank under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. A total of Rs 75 lakh will be invested in the project. The second lab at GSSS (boys) Bilaspur is nearing completion and will be inaugurated by Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani on January 7.

The labs will feature models of ISRO missions, including Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), and Aditya Mission. Students will also explore emerging technologies like robotics, 3D printing and artificial intelligence. The initiative seeks to bridge educational gaps between urban and rural areas, fostering technological advancement in the region.

Abid Hussain emphasised the transformative potential of the initiative, saying, “Establishing space labs in rural areas provides a crucial opportunity for students. This initiative will promote scientific outlook, equality in education, and technical skills development.”

To enhance learning, ten students from the district recently visited ISRO’s Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad. Plans are underway for 50 more students to participate in similar educational trips, further inspiring interest in space science and technology.

The space labs are expected to revolutionise education by moving beyond traditional classroom learning and inspiring students to pursue careers in science and technology. This initiative marks a significant milestone in fostering a scientific temper and promoting innovation among young learners.