6 govt high schools in DK await mentors for tinkering labs
These were approved in 2024-25 academic year for high schools situated in Bantwal, Belthangady, Puttur, Uppinangady, and Sullia.
An official from SSK told TOI that all six schools received the equipment and the lab was set up in May. "However, to operate the labs, the state govt appoints a mentor, who helps the students to use the entire facility. The tender process has started, and if all goes well, these facilities are likely to get mentors any time soon," the official said, adding that the delay will cause inconvenience to students' learning.
A dedicated room is reserved for the lab, equipped with science materials, robotics, sensors, mechanical and electrical tools, and safety equipment.
A school head said that the approved schools have arranged the necessary internet connection for lab. "If scientific tools are left unused for a long time, their efficiency may decrease. Starting the lab soon would benefit SSLC students. Delays could deprive them of this facility due to exam preparations," the head explained.
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Teachers also pointed out that, in addition to students, they too require training to effectively use the lab equipment. "The labs aim to prepare students for the technological world. There are over 300 scientific tools across six main categories, including drone-related learning. The equipment was set up four months ago, and we expected mentors to arrive by the start of the academic year. All interested teachers must be trained," a teacher said.
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