Innokidz:

A Journey in Technology
and Sustainability!

By
Anansha Almyan
Grade XII
Noonmati Public School Guwahati
20 June 2024
 Executive Summary
The Big Why
Robotics and technology are essential for advancing our communities and also environmental sustainability through
innovative solutions. By investing in these fields, we can address critical issues like illiteracy, poverty, pollution, climate
change, and resource management. Children from disadvantaged backgrounds need access to education in these areas to
break the cycle of poverty and become empowered contributors to a sustainable future. Providing opportunities in robotics
and tech can inspire and equip them to drive positive change.

The Problem

In India, tech education faces significant challenges with 93% of schools lacking necessary
equipment for practical learning, which hampers student engagement and innovation. This
disparity exists despite the country's tech industry anticipating a shortage of 2 million skilled
professionals by 2025. Meanwhile, there is a concerning complacency towards environmental
issues, with 74% of Indians perceiving air pollution as a major problem but not actively engaging in
long-term solutions. Bridging these gaps requires not only improving teaching conditions but also
fostering a proactive approach to technical and environmental education to ensure sustainable
development for future generations.
 Executive Summary
Achievements
1) Awareness workshops

2 virtual fieldwork sessions with Shakti Foundation NGO and

ThinkSharp Foundation: technological education, robotics,
significance, basics, environmental betterment
2 offline fieldwork sessions with Unnayan Mancha (HUM) NGO:
significance of STEM education, basics of robotics and tech,
games highlighting tech in use of community and environment
welfare

2) Community Project

Curriculum of technology and robotics for ThinkSharp Foundation

NGO highlighting creativity and innovation
An offline session with house help’s children and kids of young age
with menial jobs discussing value of STEM education and holistic
advancements of individuals in these fields, and introducing them
to the curriculum I made.
 Team

Anansha Almyan Arham Sogani

 The Big Why
I came across a profound quote by Mother Teresa that resonated with me: “If you judge people, you
have no time to love them.” It got me thinking about how we interact with those who are less fortunate.
Instead of just feeling sorry for them, we need to provide the support they need to thrive.

I'll never forget the moment when my friend, who happened to be my house help's daughter, became
paralyzed at the age of 13. She was just like me in so many ways, but she didn't have access to the
resources needed to treat her problem. I used to feel sorry for her whenever I saw her worn-out clothes
and shoes, but it wasn't until then that I realized the urgency of taking action to help. I knew right then
that I wanted to be someone who makes a difference rather than just sympathizing.

When it comes to my passion for tech and the environment, it's pretty straightforward. I've always been
captivated by technology, and the thought of the future has always excited me more than the present. I
want my career to be centered around driving change for the future. Tech and robotics will save the
generations to come. As for the environment, it's an urgent issue that demands our attention.

The COVID-19 lockdown was a turning point for many, but for me, it was a time when I truly fell in love
with witnessing the positive changes in our planet. The skies were clearer, the air was fresher. It made
me wonder what the earth was like 50 or even a hundred years ago. How can we bring back that natural
beauty? This personal revelation has inspired me to pursue work that aligns with my passions and
values.

I hope that by combining my love for tech with the desire to make a positive impact on the environment,
I can contribute to something truly meaningful and worthwhile.
 The Problem
Lack of Genuine Devotion to Teaching:
Education is often result-oriented rather than fostering genuine interest in the subject.
Inadequate Resources:
93% of schools in India lack proper instruments or devices for hands-on learning (ASER 2020).
Poor Teaching Conditions:
59% of teachers report feeling unmotivated due to poor working conditions (National Sample
Survey).
Complacency with Current Climate Issues:
74% of Indians acknowledge air pollution as a major concern but do not actively engage in long-
term solutions (Global Attitudes Survey).
Loss of Student Interest:
Students become disinterested and opt for work over education, contributing to a dropout rate of
17.06% at the secondary school level (Ministry of Education, India).
Lack of Conceptual Understanding:
65% of teachers are unable to provide deep conceptual understanding due to a lack of resources
and motivation (Education World India School Rankings).
Environmental Degradation:
The earth's condition worsens daily due to neglect, with India ranking 177 out of 180 in the
Environmental Performance Index 2018.
 Why solve this problem?
Consequences:
Lagging in Technological Advancements:
Without proper tech education, India risks
falling behind in the global tech race, with
over 2 million skilled tech jobs expected to
remain unfilled by 2025 (NASSCOM).
Unprepared Workforce:
Students lacking hands-on experience will be
unprepared for the future job market, where
65% of jobs will require new skills (World
Economic Forum).
Environmental Crisis:
Ignoring the integration of tech solutions in
environmental education will exacerbate
issues, worsening India's rank of 177 out of
180 in the Environmental Performance Index
2018.
Benefits:
Skilled Technological Workforce:
Addressing these issues can produce a highly
skilled workforce ready to tackle future
challenges in robotics and technology.
Innovative Problem Solving:
Enhanced tech education fosters innovation,
enabling students to create real-world
solutions to pressing environmental issues.
Global Competitiveness:
Strengthening tech and robotics education
will ensure India remains competitive in the
global market, driving economic growth.
Environmental Sustainability:
Educating students on tech-driven
environmental solutions promotes
sustainable practices, reducing pollution and
conserving resources.
 The Solution:
The Project Scope

I developed and implemented a specialized curriculum focused on robotics and

technology for an NGO serving underprivileged children. The curriculum
integrates hands-on learning, interactive teaching methods, and practical
applications to inspire interest and skill development in STEM fields. Through
engaging sessions, including virtual and offline meets, I helped participants gain
practical skills in technology while learning about environmental stewardship and
solutions. I aimed to empower young learners to become proactive agents of
change in their communities, fostering a future generation equipped to tackle
real-world challenges through innovation and sustainability.
 NGO & Target Audience

Shakti Foundation

Website: http://www.shaktifoundationindia.com

Shakti foundation aims to provide shakti (energy) to people and

children to inspire them to overcome obstacles in their lives.
They focus on alternative livelihoods, financial inclusion, waste
management, remedial education and caring for children with
special needs.
Ages groups: 12-14
The group of children I interacted with were intelligent,
curious and just very sweet. It was amazing working with them
and I had a great time getting to know them.
 NGO & Target Audience

ThinkSparp Foundation

Website: https://www.thinksharpfoundation.org

"ThinkSharp Foundation is a non-profit organization driven by

the belief that every child deserves an excellent education.
Their vision is to "Bridge the Rural-Urban Education Divide."
Through their relentless commitment, ensuring that every
child, regardless of their geographical location, has equitable
access to quality education.
After reviewing their work, I found it to be an enlightening
experience as I discovered various ways to make a positive
impact. Developing a curriculum for them and sharing it with
others was a truly pleasant experience.
NGO & Target Audience
Hojai Unnayan Mancha (HUM)

Website: http://www.humhojai.or.

It is an NGO dedicated to promoting social, economic, and

environmental development. The organization has provided
crucial support to numerous underprivileged youths and
children. I have had the privilege of working with them for
the past six years, and it has been incredibly gratifying to get
to know each and every one of these remarkable young
people.
During my time with them, I shared the curriculum that I
had developed and found joy in teaching them various
hands-on activities. I shared with them the importance of
robotics, technology and environmental preservation.
 The Solution:
The Steps Taken
Virtual Fieldwork Sessions with Shakti Foundation NGO
1) I conducted a virtual session aimed at educating and inspiring young learners in
robotics and technology.
This session included:
Introducing robotics and technology concepts through interactive and
engaging methods to foster genuine interest among students.
Incorporating educational games and relatable metaphors to make complex
concepts more understandable and memorable.
Emphasizing hands-on learning experiences to provide practical skills and
insights into robotics and technology applications.
2) This session sewed environmental issues with robotics and technology.
It included:
Discussing sustainable environmental practices enhanced by technology, such
as waste management solutions and pollution reduction initiatives.
Learning about robots and technology to a deeper level.
Learning to make a simple hands-on project related to robotics.
 The Solution:
The Steps Taken

Offline Fieldwork Sessions with Unnayan Mancha (HUM) NGO

I conducted an impactful offline fieldwork session focused on hands-on learning and practical
application in robotics, technology, and sustainable environmental practices. Here are the key
highlights:
Participants: Engaged with a diverse group of participants, including students from the NGO
and possibly other community members interested in technology and environmental
conservation.
The session aimed to:
1. Demonstrate practical applications of robotics and technology in solving real-world
environmental challenges.
2. Provide participants with firsthand experience in operating robotics tools and devices.
3. Foster teamwork and collaboration through group activities focused on environmental
betterment projects.
Activities and Demonstrations: Conducted interactive demonstrations and activities, such as:
1. Hands-on workshops where participants engaged in building and programming simple robots.
2. Discussions on sustainable practices and how technology can enhance environmental
stewardship.
 The Solution:
The Steps Taken
Community Project
Curriculum Development for ThinkSharp Foundation NGO:
I undertook the development of a specialized curriculum focused on robotics,
technology, and sustainable environmental practices. The curriculum was
meticulously designed to cater to the unique needs and interests of
underprivileged children, aiming to inspire and empower them through
education. Key aspects of the curriculum development include:
1. Learning Objectives: Defined clear learning objectives aligned with fostering
interest in robotics, enhancing technological literacy, and promoting
environmental stewardship.
2. Content Design: Developed engaging and interactive lesson plans that integrate
robotics and technology with real-world challenges.
3. Hands-On Activities: Incorporated hands-on activities, experiments, and
projects to provide practical learning experiences and reinforce theoretical
knowledge.
4. Educational Resources: Curated educational resources, including digital
materials, tools, and equipment, to support learning and experimentation.
5. Curriculum Implementation: Facilitated the implementation of the curriculum
through offline sessions, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all
participants.
 Obstacles

Overcoming my shyness and discomfort with public

speaking was a significant personal challenge for me.
Initially, I viewed myself as someone who disliked speaking
in front of others. However, through dedicated practice
and a shift in mindset, I gradually gained confidence.
I started by practicing extensively and imagining myself
speaking to close friends rather than strangers. This
approach helped me feel more relaxed and authentic
during presentations. Additionally, because the topic was
one I was passionate about—robotics, technology, and
environmental sustainability—I found myself enjoying the
process of sharing my knowledge and insights.
 Obstacles

Engaging with children who were intelligent but easily

distracted posed a challenge initially, especially considering
their shyness. To overcome this hurdle, I employed a strategy
of actively involving them through interactive questions and
specific activities tailored to their interests. They required a
personalized approach that emphasized their importance and
encouraged active participation. I addressed each child by
name, ensuring they felt valued and recognized throughout
the sessions. To maintain their interest and keep the
atmosphere light, I incorporated humor and interactive
elements into the discussions. I frequently paused during the
sessions, allowing ample time for questions and ensuring
everyone had opportunities to contribute and clarify their
understanding. This approach not only encouraged dialogue
but also created a supportive environment where children felt
comfortable expressing their thoughts and asking questions.
 Outcomes & Impact
The Outcomes

Raised Awareness: Introduced approx 20 underprivileged children to

robotics, technology, and environmental sustainability across 3 cities.
Engaging Learning Experiences: Created interactive 4 sessions, both
online and offline, to deepen understanding and appreciation for STEM
subjects.
Skill Development: Empowered approx 12 children to explore and
develop practical skills in robotics and technology through hands-on
projects and activities.
Environmental Focus: Integrated environmental conservation and
sustainability practices into the sessions, fostering interest and
awareness.
Curriculum: Created a curriculum to introduce underprivileged children
to robotics and technology through interactive and hands-on learning
texts across 3 non-profits.
Future Innovation: Laid the groundwork for future learning and
innovation in STEM education by providing a foundation of knowledge
and skills.
 Outcomes & Impact
The Impact
Through the fieldwork session and the structured curriculum, I successfully raised
awareness about robotics, technology, and environmental sustainability among children. By
creating interactive and engaging sessions, I deepened their understanding and
appreciation for STEM subjects, making learning both enjoyable and memorable. The
curriculum and the sessions inspired curiosity and enthusiasm, encouraging active
participation and fostering a love for learning. Hands-on projects and activities empowered
the children to explore and develop practical skills in robotics and technology, providing
them with valuable knowledge and abilities.
On a personal level, this experience helped me overcome my own shyness and discomfort
with public speaking. I became more confident and began to enjoy the process. Engaging
with children and explaining complex topics in simple, relatable ways improved my
communication skills and ability to connect with diverse audiences. Working with easily
distracted and shy children taught me patience and the importance of adapting my
teaching methods to meet their needs. Witnessing the children's growth and enthusiasm
reinforced my passion for education and solidified my commitment to making a positive
impact. By actively involving the children in the learning process and addressing them by
name, I created a supportive and inclusive environment that empowered both the children
and myself. This experience enriched the children’s knowledge and skills while having a
profound personal impact on my confidence, communication abilities, and dedication to
education.
 Future Scope
Curriculum Enhancement: Expand the current curriculum to include more advanced
topics in robotics and technology, such as basic coding, electronics, and renewable energy
projects. This gradual progression will help students build on their foundational
knowledge.
Regular Workshops: Organize regular hands-on workshops to reinforce classroom
learning. These workshops can focus on building simple robots, understanding basic
programming, and exploring practical environmental solutions.
Partnerships with Local Schools and NGOs: Collaborate with more local schools and
NGOs to broaden the reach of the program. By working together, we can share resources,
expertise, and facilities to provide a more comprehensive learning experience.
Teacher Training: Develop and implement training programs for teachers to ensure they
are well-equipped to deliver the enhanced curriculum. Providing teachers with the
necessary skills and resources will ensure the sustainability of the program.
Environmental Projects: Incorporate small-scale, community-based environmental
projects into the curriculum. For example, students could participate in local clean-up
drives, tree planting activities, or recycling programs, applying their knowledge to real-
world issues.
Continuous Feedback and Improvement: Implement a system for regular feedback
from students, teachers, and parents to continuously improve the curriculum. This
feedback will help identify what works well and what areas need adjustment.