Through this collaboration, ISRO will facilitate coaching and mentoring of students in advanced cutting-edge technologies of the 21st century including those related to space.
The student will be exposed to theoretical as well as practical and application-based knowledge of STEM and space education related concepts such as electronics, physics, optics, space technology, mterial sciences and many more.
“The collaboration between NITI Aayog and Indian Space Research Organization is one of the prime examples of synergy between different government departments to creat an Atmanirbhar Bharat,” NITI Aayog vice chairman Rajiv Kumar said. ATLs are the brainchild of NITI Aayog.
“This is a great opportunity for our young budding space researchers and astronauts to learn from the best minds of our country, and become living inspirations for their school, families and local communities,” Kumar said.
According to ISRO chairman Dr K Sivan this project based learning will improve the attitude towards research right from the school days.
ISRO is of the view that adoption of 100 ATLs, distributed geographically in line with ISRO’s presence across the country, the organization is taking a small step in engaging with the students, towards giving them direction in pursuing their space dreams.
Under the collaboration, scientists and engineers from ISRO centers in coordination with capacity building program office at ISRO headquarters will mentor the kids as well as interact with teachers in these ATLs for encouraging experiments, brainstorming ideas and spreading awareness in space activities.
An Atal Tinkering Lab provides a makerspace where young minds can give shape to their ideas through hands on do-it-yourself mode; and learn innovation skills.
To foster entrepreneurship and innovation, Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog has established over 7000 ATLs across the country so far enabling over 3 million students between Grade VI to Grade XII acquire a problem solving, tinkering and innovative mindset.
Atal Innovation Mission had earlier collaborated with ISRO for the Aatmanirbhar Bharat ARISE-ANIC Initiative along with four other ministries to spur applied research and innovation in Indian MSMEs and startups.