Chhote Kalam Science Project
A Hands-On STEM Education Project by Vidyoday
Project Overview
The Chhote Kalam Science Project is a transformative STEM education initiative by Vidyoday Muktangan Parivar Foundation (VMPF). Launched in 2022, the project addresses critical gaps in science and mathematics education across Zilla Parishad schools in Kolhapur, empowering students through hands-on, inquiry-based learning.
Named in honor of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's vision for scientific empowerment, this project nurtures young minds—particularly those from economically disadvantaged rural areas—with interactive STEM experiences that make learning practical, fun, and meaningful.
APJ Abdul Kalam Science Vans — फिरती शाळा
Bringing the wonder of science to every doorstep in rural Maharashtra
We also run Mobile Science Vans called 'APJ Abdul Kalam Science Vans' — known as Firati Shala (फिरती शाळा) in Marathi — that give exposure to rural children who cannot come to schools and are deprived of the fun and learning that science offers.
Vidyoday runs 2 Vans across the Shirol Block, taking the Chhote Kalam Science Project to the remotest parts of the block — spreading learning through activity-based science experiments directly to children's doorsteps.
Why This Project?
"Only 38.29% of students in Kolhapur's government schools have a satisfactory understanding of science."
— National Achievement Survey, 2017
This project addresses educational gaps, economic barriers, and lack of practical STEM resources in rural government schools.
Project Objectives
Enhance STEM understanding through practical experiments
Foster curiosity and inquiry-based learning among students
Build a scalable, sustainable STEM education model
Develop scientific temperament in rural students
Empower teachers with hands-on teaching techniques
Key Activities
Hands-On Experiments
Low-cost, practical science activities for classrooms.
Learning Modules
Interactive STEM modules aligned with curriculum.
Teacher Training
Workshops to build educator capacity in activity-based teaching.
Student Workshops
STEM-focused extracurricular workshops for deeper engagement.
Who Benefits?
Students
Direct beneficiaries experiencing practical STEM learning
Teachers
Enhanced skills in activity-based teaching methods
School Administrators
Improved educational outcomes and school reputation
Local Communities
Positive impact on overall community development
Outcomes & Impact
Improved academic performance in STEM subjects
Higher student participation and motivation in STEM
Strengthened inquiry and critical thinking skills
Empowered and better-equipped teachers
Positive ripple effects in the local community
Supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Quality Education
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education
Decent Work & Economic Growth
Promote sustained, inclusive economic growth
Reduced Inequalities
Reduce inequality within and among countries
Sustainable Cities
Make cities inclusive, safe, and sustainable
Support the 'Chhote Kalams'
Your contribution can transform the lives of rural students and bring quality STEM education to those who need it most.
Join Us in Empowering Young Minds
Every contribution brings us closer to creating a generation of confident, curious, and capable learners.