Innovative science projects by school-kids exhibited

PES University campus was witness to a celebration of science as school children from various institutions across Indiaexhibited innovative working projects. On display at the venue were close to 90 working models of solutions for real world problems. Over 8000 students, with about 400 from other cities, visited the venue and actively participated in the activities. The Amateur Scientist 2018 (TAS 2018) with the motto of “Inspire, Invent, Innovate” is one of the initiatives of PES University to encourage school children to meet people, share knowledge and learn new things.The event exhibited working projects submitted by students studying in 8th to 12th standards.The projects ranged from intelligent mechanical arrangements to use of Internet of Things (IoT) and Bots. More than just projects they solved real world problems in agriculture, space, transmission of electricity, to name a few. Students at the stalls faced queries from inquisitive visitors and the panel of expert judges. Dr M R Doreswamy, Chancellor, PES University interacted with the school children. According to him, “The ideas of the kids displayed hold immense potential that needs active nurturing by teachers and schools. The spirit of science among children will be playing an important role in nation building as we compete in the global economy.” Science Project Competition hosted the dream working models that students had envisioned. The top project won a prize ofRs.10,000. Visiting school-kids got an opportunity to participate in many contests which tested their aptitude for science, analytical skills and ability to implement ideas.Model-making competition-RoboCombat involved students building their own robot, and bots battling it out in the arena. General Science quiz tested their knowledge in an exciting format.The Amazing Race was about clues and tasks leading to a series of spots on the campus and finally to the finish line. In Ideathon,over three rounds budding entrepreneurs get an opportunity to pitch their idea and the business model to a jury. Another contest challenged students to create a work of art using UV paint, paintbrush and acrylic paints on paper. Inquisitors Trials tested the debating skills and ability to deal with a simulated crisis. Code Warsput coding skills of participants on trial in a programming challenge. The event also hosted hands-on electronic workshop for the students.Blogger participants posed as the “Press of the day”. Over 200 students of PES University planned and managed the various activities from coordinating participation of schools to identifying the themes for the event. The Amateur Scientist, in its 11th year, organized since year 2010, is an important event which is popular among the school-children across the country especially in Bangalore. The event sponsored by PES University is known for the vibrant atmosphere and enriching exposure for school-kids.