Inspiring Innovation Through STEM: Hands-on Learning at Rural Schools in Gujarat

Smart Village Movement, October 3, 2025

Shri S. M. Shah Vidyamandir, Savli

At Shri S. M. Shah Vidyamandir in Savli, Smart Village Movement (SVM), in collaboration with Curiosity Gym (CG), has transformed classroom learning through a STEM Innovation Lab — a space where creativity meets technology.

This is one of the 12 STEM Innovation Hubs that SVM has launched in Gujarat and now expanding to 35 more schools to bring modern learning opportunities to remote and underprivileged rural communities.

Experiential Learning: Students who once only read about science in textbooks are now learning by doing — from using 3D pens and printers to designing circuits on breadboards and experimenting with robotics.

“Earlier, I had never used a 3D pen or worked with electronics,” says Dhiral Lakshmanbhai, a Class 9 student. “Now I can make 3D drawings and simple LED circuits. My parents were amazed to see what I created in the lab!”

Fellow student Lakshra Arvindbhai shares,

“Every day in the STEM Lab is full of new discoveries. We’ve learned to make circuits, use 3D pens, and bring our ideas to life. It’s so much fun!”

Through this initiative, Smart Village Movement (SVM) and Curiosity Gym are nurturing curiosity, problem-solving, and innovation among rural students — equipping them with the skills needed for a future shaped by science and technology.

“Such innovative learning opportunities are shaping a brighter and more confident generation of students,” shares Mr. Chauhan, expressing gratitude to SVM Chairman Dr. Anil Shah, School Trustee Shri Indravadan Shah, and our STEM partner, the Curiosity Gym team, for their vision and continued support.

Your support can help us bring STEM education to even more children who would otherwise miss out on these life-changing opportunities in an increasingly competitive digital age. With just $20 per child per year, you can help nurture young innovators and bridge the rural education gap.

➡️ Donate today to empower the next generation of problem solvers and changemakers: www.smartvillagemovement.org/donate

The STEM Lab at Savli stands as a shining example of how hands-on education can inspire young minds to imagine, invent, and innovate.

Teachers too, are witnessing a remarkable shift. Karan V. Chauhan, who teaches Mathematics and Science, recalls,

“At first, we wondered if our students would understand these new concepts. But once the practical sessions began, their excitement was beyond imagination! From making 3D models to small robots, their confidence and curiosity have grown immensely.”