Abhay Bhutada Foundation Empowering Students With Hands-On STEM Education
- Parag Shetty
- Sep 3
- 4 min read
India’s journey toward becoming a global leader depends on how effectively it educates its youth. With the country set to have the largest working-age population by 2030, there is immense responsibility to prepare students for careers shaped by technology and innovation. Yet, only a small proportion of students currently study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). To fill this gap, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation has stepped in, ensuring that underprivileged schools receive STEM kits that make learning interactive, accessible, and inspiring.
Limited Participation in STEM Subjects
TL;DR: At present, around 30% of Indian students are choosing STEM. This low percentage is concerning because industries across the globe are increasingly dependent on skills rooted in these fields. The lack of resources in many schools prevents children from seeing how scientific concepts apply to the real world. Without exposure to experiments or tools, subjects like physics, chemistry, and biology remain abstract and often difficult to grasp, reducing student interest.
LearnByDoing Inspiring Change
The LearnByDoing program by Sakar Eduskills aims to solve this challenge. Its mission is to make science and mathematics engaging and simple, especially for children from underserved communities. Through STEM kits, the initiative transforms ordinary classrooms into spaces where curiosity thrives. Children can now explore topics through experiments, helping them connect textbook knowledge to real-world applications.
Collaboration With Abhay Bhutada Foundation
The Abhay Bhutada Foundation has partnered with LearnByDoing to expand its reach in the Pune district. More than 2000 students from schools in Bursewadi, Kelgaon, Dhanore, Bahul, Thakarwadi, Bhose, Malegaon, and Sangise have benefited. These schools received STEM kits for the first time, creating excitement among both students and teachers. Abhay Bhutada’s vision of equal educational opportunities was brought to life through this effort, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most.
Teachers Observing Positive Outcomes
The introduction of STEM kits has already shown results in classrooms. A teacher from Kelgaon mentioned that students are now able to understand complex topics more effectively. Science, which often felt difficult, is becoming approachable through simple experiments. Learning has moved beyond memorisation to active participation.
The students’ reactions reflect the same enthusiasm. A Class 7 student explained how the kit helped him study the human body. He enjoyed using the microscope to view details invisible to the naked eye and experimenting with a periscope to learn about reflection. These activities transformed learning into an exciting process that students look forward to each day.
Why STEM Kits Matter for Students
STEM kits bring theory to life. They allow children to test ideas, solve problems and work as a team. Activities such as building small circuits, conducting experiments with light or observing samples under a microscope help strengthen critical thinking and creativity. Without such experiences, many students may never get the chance to discover their strengths in science. By providing these tools, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation ensures that underprivileged children are not left behind in gaining exposure to the modern world of learning.
Preparing India’s Workforce for 2030
India’s demographic advantage will matter only if its youth are skilled and future-ready. The demand for professionals in areas like biotechnology, renewable energy, digital healthcare and data science is growing rapidly. By nurturing curiosity and problem-solving abilities at a young age, programs like LearnByDoing are creating the foundation for a capable workforce. With the support of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, students in rural schools are getting the encouragement needed to pursue higher studies and careers in STEM-related fields.
Encouraging Families to Value Education
The initiative also plays a role in changing how communities view schooling. Parents in underprivileged families often find it hard to see immediate value in education. When they observe their children experimenting with STEM kits, building models and learning through practical tools, their faith in schooling strengthens. This motivates them to keep their children in school, which creates long-term social benefits for entire communities.
Promoting Equal Learning Opportunities
The focus of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation has always been on equality. Every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of their background. By directing resources to rural schools, the Foundation is helping reduce the divide between students in well-funded urban institutions and those in smaller communities. This support gives every student the chance to explore their interests and develop their skills.
Also Read: How The Abhay Bhutada Foundation Ensures Active Compliance with SEBI’s 2021 ESG Standards
Conclusion
The future of India rests on how effectively it educates its young population. With only 30% of students currently choosing STEM, the need to create interest and provide hands-on opportunities is urgent. The LearnByDoing program, supported by the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, has already reached more than 2000 students across eight schools in Pune. Abhay Bhutada’s efforts demonstrate how practical tools can change the way students learn and prepare them for the future. By providing equal opportunities and nurturing curiosity, the Foundation is empowering students to grow into confident, skilled individuals ready to contribute to the nation.
FAQs
1. What Is The Abhay Bhutada Foundation?
It is a philanthropic initiative by Abhay Bhutada focused on supporting education and student development.
2. How Has The Foundation Contributed To Stem Learning?
By collaborating with LearnByDoing to distribute STEM kits in eight schools in Pune.
3. What Is The Foundation’s Long-Term Mission?
To provide equal opportunities and build future-ready skills among underprivileged students.
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