The Smile Foundation, with support from Shell India and in collaboration with the Government of Telangana, recently hosted the NX Corner Carnival in Khammam. This event was aimed at giving rural school children a platform to showcase their scientific talents and innovative ideas. It was a day-long celebration of creativity and problem-solving.
Dr. P. Srija, I.A.S, Additional Collector (Local Bodies), attended as the Chief Guest, while Shri Somasekhar Sharma, District Educational Officer, joined as the Guest of Honour. The carnival featured 60 students from 13 schools who presented 20 innovative projects across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). These projects focused on solving everyday issues, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, controlling emissions, conserving nature, and addressing various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The NX Corner initiative is designed to foster teamwork, creativity, and effective communication among students. It encourages them to think critically, use computational approaches, and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. By promoting adaptive learning and physical computing skills, the program equips students to thrive in an ever-evolving technological world.
An NX Lab, the centerpiece of this initiative, is equipped with cutting-edge technology. It includes a 50-inch 4K Smart LED Google TV, high-end laptops, a Wi-Fi router, a whiteboard, storage boxes, and SDG-themed educational content like e-books and videos for grades 6-8. These labs are designed to inspire students and provide tools for hands-on learning.
Speaking at the event, Dr. P. Srija praised the Smile Foundation’s efforts, saying, “The creativity, dedication, and passion displayed by the students were truly outstanding. Their innovative models and experiments demonstrated immense knowledge and technical skills. This event was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate scientific discovery.”
Shri Somasekhar Sharma also highlighted the importance of such initiatives, stating, “STEM education, combined with SDG awareness, prepares children to be both capable and responsible future leaders. We are pleased with the progress made through our partnership with the Smile Foundation.”
The Smile Foundation has been implementing the NXplorers Junior program, a global STEM education initiative by Shell, in 48 schools across Khammam, including 30 Zilla Parishad schools and 18 Mandal Parishad schools. This program aligns with the United Nations SDGs and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to help students address local and global challenges.
Beyond Khammam, the Smile Foundation has expanded this program to 90 government schools in Thrissur, Kerala; 130 schools in Tirupati and Nellore, Andhra Pradesh; and 160 schools across various districts in Telangana. These efforts continue to empower students with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of tomorrow.
