The Rural Science Centre, primarily houses a well-equipped laboratory where school-going students can perform experiments in subjects of physics and chemistry
The need
The Rural Science Centre was established in response to requests from attendees of Janaki Hospital and women from the members of self-help group federation – Sanjeevani Mahila Bachat Sangh – seeking quality education opportunities for their school-going children.
Upon further inquiry, HMF unearthed a concerning reality: many schools lacked the essential laboratories and equipment needed to conduct science experiments. This deficit meant that students could not actively engage with and apply the theoretical concepts outlined in their science syllabus. Without the opportunity to observe, witness, experience, or apply these concepts in practical settings, their understanding remained limited to theoretical knowledge. This knowledge gap needed to be filled to facilitate hands-on learning experiences and enhance students’ comprehension of scientific principles. Thus, in 2003, the Rural Science Centre was established.
How it operates
The Rural Science Centre began with a few pieces of equipment so that high school students could come to the Centre to conduct certain experiments. It then collaborated with a few schools and retired school teachers who volunteered to guide the students. The response was positive as many more schools showed interest. Thus arose the need for proper space, books, and more materials and equipment in the Centre’s lab.
Appreciating the effort of HMF, two organizations from Pune, Maharashtra –Durga Devi Charitable Trust, since 2008 presently known as Foundation for Community Learning (FCL) and Vigyan Vahini Sanstha, in 2003 began to support this venture, which continues even today. They provide the funds as well as expertise and equipment necessary for the Rural Science Centre.
In 2007, the Science Centre building was built and equipped with the necessary materials and equipment for conducting experiments in physics and chemistry. The schedules for students’ visits are planned annually with science teachers from the collaborated schools in such a way that students from each school visit the laboratory to conduct experiments at least four times a year.
Reach
38 secondary schools in the area have permanently connected with the Centre and participate in all its activities. In a year, approximately 1000 students use the lab.
The Mobile Science Laboratory
The Mobile Science Laboratory is an activity meant to bring laboratory experiences directly to collaborating schools.
The Rural Science Centre (RSC) prepares annual plans to schedules visits to the schools. Each July, it partners with Vigyan Vahini Sanstha to conduct this initiative for 8th to 10th-grade students. Expert teachers, along with necessary materials and a van provided by Vigyan Vahini Sanstha, facilitate hands-on experiments in physics and chemistry at these local schools. The van is equipped with visual and audio-visual teaching materials, which are shown to the students to make the learning experience more engaging.
Teachers from these schools too actively participate in demonstrating and teaching experiments alongside RSC and Vigyan Vahini teachers.
Students of the government-run schools of the district are also invited. Approximately 900 to 1000 students participate in this activity every year.
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Outcome
The science laboratory initiative of the RSC has helped foster a scientific approach, and dispelled students’ fears about conducting experiments.
Funding partners
Foundation for Community Learning (FCL), Pune, and Vigyan Vahini Sanstha, Pune