The SCERT Uttarakhand campus and Conference Auditorium, Nanurkheda, Dehradun, served as the vibrant venue for the State-level Model Making Competition “UTSAAH” (Uttarakhand Tinkering, Skill Advancement, and Hands-on Initiative), jointly organized by Samagra Shiksha Uttarakhand and IIT Kanpur. The competition was conducted for students and teachers of PM SHRI and Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) schools, aiming to promote innovation, hands-on learning, and technology-integrated solutions to contemporary challenges. The event brought together 36 working models, each demonstrating practical applications of science, technology, and sustainable development aligned with real-world needs.
The models presented reflected months of rigorous preparation and mentoring under the Atal Tinkering Labs established by IIT Kanpur in PM SHRI schools. Students showcased innovative solutions focused on areas such as renewable energy, smart infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and community problem-solving, highlighting their creativity, scientific temperament, and problem-solving skills. The exhibition created a dynamic learning environment where innovation met purpose, reinforcing the vision of experiential learning under NEP 2020.
The jury evaluation was primarily based on innovation in existing technologies, relevance to present-day challenges, feasibility, and societal impact. After careful assessment, the three best models were selected as winners from among the 36 participating teams, appreciating their originality and effective integration of technology for sustainable solutions.
The programme commenced in the morning with an inaugural session led by Ms. Hemlata Gaur, Principal, DIET Dehradun, who encouraged students and teachers to continue exploring technology-driven learning and innovation. The prize distribution ceremony in the afternoon was graced by Dr. Mukul Kumar Sati, Director, Secondary Education, Uttarakhand, accompanied by Deputy Directors Mr. Ajeet Bhandari, Ms. Pallavi Nain, Ms. Akanksha Rathore, and other senior officials from Samagra Shiksha and SCERT Uttarakhand, who appreciated the efforts of students, mentors, and organizing teams.
A detailed overview of the UTSAAH initiative, its objectives, and implementation was presented by Dr. Pandey from IIT Kanpur, whose team played a pivotal role in the successful execution of the event. From anchoring and technical coordination to jury facilitation and vote of thanks, the IIT Kanpur team efficiently managed the entire programme, ensuring a smooth and impactful learning experience for all participants.
The UTSAAH State-level Model Making Competition stands as a strong example of effective collaboration between academic institutions and government education bodies, fostering innovation, creativity, and problem-solving skills among school students. Such initiatives reaffirm Samagra Shiksha Uttarakhand’s commitment to nurturing future-ready learners through hands-on, technology-enabled education. Dr. Mukul Kumar Sati, Director, Secondary Education, Uttarakhand, said,
“The UTSAAH model making competition reflects the true spirit of experiential and innovation-led learning envisioned under the National Education Policy 2020. The creative use of technology by students of PM SHRI and Atal Tinkering Lab schools to address real-life challenges is highly commendable. Such initiatives not only strengthen scientific thinking and problem-solving skills but also prepare our students to become responsible innovators and contributors to society.”