SWAT: Boys and girls from various schools came together here to celebrate International Stem Day.

They displayed innovative projects at an expo, offering solutions to energy, environmental, agricultural and other modern day issues.

The event titled “Let’s Build Pakistan” was organised by Skool21 in collaboration with SPS College Swat.

The visitors, including parents, teachers, and community members, appreciated the projects, which, according to them, showed the students’ growing interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (Stem).

They said the standouts included electric power systems, drip irrigation solutions, robotic prototypes, and models on space exploration and quality education.

Exhibit innovative projects on energy, environmental, agricultural issues

Seventh graders Shehryar, Yahya, Haziq, and Mukhlis put up a model to generate electricity from school trash.

They said not only Pakistan but also the entire world faced pollution, which impacted people’s health and caused diseases.

The students said their model incorporated solar thermal plates to harness heat and light before their conversion to usable energy.

Visiting FSc student Anusha Iqbal said she was impressed by the talents and skills showcased by young minds.

“It’s inspiring to see students use a Stem approach to solve modern day issues. Their creativity is helping find practical solutions to issues like solid waste management, pollution, and energy shortages,” she said.

The visitor said Stem Day should be celebrated annually to encourage more and more students to come up with “constructive and impactful” initiatives.

Parents took pride in their children’s achievements.

“As a father, I am thrilled to see young students develop and showcase such innovative and functional models. They have exceeded my expectations with their creativity and technical skill,” Khalil Ahmad said, acknowledging the potential of Stem education to inspire future problem solvers.

Fatima Shahab, a 10th grader from Barikot, highlighted the need for reforming education system in the country.

“In traditional systems, students often get bored with rote learning but Stem education is hands-on and engaging experience. It empowers students to think critically and practically, which is essential for development. Our education system should incorporate more Stem opportunities to keep pace with global progress and prepare us to contribute meaningfully,” she said.

The organisers called for integrating Stem into the curriculum and said the initiative would help “cultivate a generation of problem solvers well-equipped to tackle local and global challenges.”

Published in Dawn, November 9th, 2024