NECTAR hosts workshop on STEM for teachers
SHILLONG, Sep 23: As a precursor to the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) larger initiative, the establishment of a STEM Hub in Shillong, which aims to provide a collaborative space for students, teachers, and researchers to work together in addressing education challenges, the NECTAR on Monday conducted a one-day workshop on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) for teachers. The workshop, organised in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, and Smart Village Movement (SVM), Meghalaya, was held at St. Edmund’s College, Shillong. The event, titled ‘Mobilising Science and Technology-Based Learning for Schools’, saw the participation of 100 teachers from Shillong and nearby areas. The goal was to bridge the gap between urban and rural education by promoting inquiry-based learning and hands-on approaches in STEM education. The workshop introduced teachers to innovative pedagogical techniques, including hands-on mathematics, interactive science projects, and app-based simulations. Swapnil Tembe, Secretary of Education department and Director of School Education & Literacy, who attended the event as the Chief Guest said, “At these centers, students are encouraged to make and design things, using tools like 3D printers to innovate and work towards entrepreneurship. But it is equally important for teachers to stay updated on the latest advancements in STEM to make learning fun and engaging for students.” He also provided an update on the state’s partnership with IIT Guwahati under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, through which over 2,000 teachers and 4,000 students have participated in training programs, interacting with professors and gaining valuable insights into modern educational methods. On similar lines, Ramkumar S, Mission Director, National Health Mission, Nodal Officer, Smart Village Movement initiative, “I am happy to witness the progress of STEM programs under Smart Village Movement in promoting technologies in community centers as well as in some schools over the past two years. The surge in student confidence and interest in STEM subjects is truly encouraging. Today’s workshop, bringing together over 100 educators from Shillong, demonstrates our collective commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering students.”
Workshop aims to promote arts among EGH youths
TURA, Sep 23: Cabinet minister Marcuise N Marak on Monday set the ball rolling for the six-day art and culture workshop as he remarked that the project is aimed at tapping the skills and talents of youths in various fields of arts. Thematised on ‘Exploring Boundaries’, the workshop will lay focus on film-making, script-writing, theatre, traditional stringed instruments and community art, the objective of which is to introduce new evolving mediums to the local masses and also to revive and retain the uniqueness of the indigenous people. Addressing the inaugural programme at Loyola College, Williamnagar, the minister also urged the youths to explore entrepreneurial opportunities. On the other hand, East Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Vibhor Aggarwal, said preserving the art and culture of a particular community is a collective responsibility. He exhorted the participants to be attentive in the workshop to tap their respective talents. Others who spoke during the programme included filmmaker Dominic M Sangma and the college principal. On the occasion, electronic tablets were distributed among the HSSLC toppers from the district.
Mega cleanliness drive in WGH
TURA, Sep 23: The West Garo Hills district administration has announced a mega cleanliness drive across the district on September 28 as part of Swachhata Hi Seva 2024 campaign. The cleanliness drive will be organised at offices, institutional buildings, commercial and market areas, educational institutions, public transport hubs, major roads and highways, sanctuaries, trekking and camping sites, water bodies and drains, tourist spots, religious and spiritual places, legacy waste sites, community and public toilets, etc. Meanwhile, all the residents of the district have been requested to participate in the cleanliness drive at their respective places of work or localities.