Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, gave a talk and interacted with students in a session at the Republic Education Conclave held at the Republic World TV Headquarters in Noida. In his address, Prof. Sood emphasized the need for AI-enhanced learning, robust support systems, data-driven simulations, and the integration of science with gaming to advance STEM education in the country. He underscored the significance of initiatives such as Atal Tinkering Labs and Atal Innovation Centers as catalysts for driving innovation—from school-level learning to national entrepreneurship. He noted that innovations emerging from these initiatives are increasingly being embedded within academic institutions, supported by sector-specific focus and infrastructure to foster innovation across all levels of academia. Prof. Sood also highlighted key government initiatives, including One Nation One Subscription and the National Education Policy, as important instruments for enhancing the quality of STEM education in India. During his address, he introduced the concept of “S-LIFE,” aimed at reimagining science education for the next generation of graduates. The framework focuses on integrating science into everyday life, revitalizing laboratories, embedding research exposure within academic curricula, and promoting science learning through cultural festivals and modern engagement platforms such as media, podcasts, and reels to amplify the voice of science within the student community. He further reiterated the urgent need to reinvent education in response to rapid technological evolution—shifting from conventional learning models toward approaches that address real-world challenges. He emphasized that such transformation is essential to bridge the global STEM gap through a forward-looking, next-generation curriculum.

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