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LoDEStonE-24-Nurturing Future Innovators at IIITH

This May, the International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIITH) proudly hosted LoDEStonE 2024, a 12-day residential program designed to blend design thinking, sustainable development, and innovation. From 5th to 16th May 2024, 36 highly able children aged 11-14 years came together to tackle contemporary challenges, equipped with the tools and knowledge provided by this enriching experience.

The event was a collaborative effort between IIIT-H and the Pravaha Foundation, with contributions from esteemed educational and social development partners. Participants were nominated by organizations such as Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs), Raising a Mathematician Foundation, Parikrma Foundation, and various other schools. Impressively, 17 of the participants hailed from JNVs, adding a rich diversity of experiences and perspectives.

Curriculum and Learning Experiences

The program’s curriculum focused on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and collaboration through the themes of design thinking, sustainable development, and innovation. The curriculum featured a series of sessions and workshops led by experts in various fields, including:

  • Basics of Design, and Fundamentals of Design Thinking by Mr. Subramanya Shastry
  • Innovation and Design in Rural India by Brigadier Ganesham and Ms. Akhila Nookala from Palle Srujana.
  • Design Essentials by Mr. Adri Mukund.
  • Fashion Designing and Sustainability by Prof. Toolika Gupta, Director IICD.
  • Robotics and Drone Design by Prof. Nagamanikandan and Prof. Harikumar Kandath.
  • Branding and Design by Ms. Ashia Avasthi.
  • Design for Manufacturing & End of Life Design by Mr. Shriram Bharathan.
  • Workshops on Education Design and Healthcare Systems Design by Mr. Chandrakant Komaragiri from United Way, Hyderabad.
  • Daily sessions on Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL) conducted by Dr. Ankit Dwivedi to promote emotional growth and development.

The program also delved into Creative Arts and importance in design though:

  • Session on Kalari Pyattu by Mr. Adri Mukund
  • Theatre Design and Workshop by Ms. Suhasini Seelin.
  • Storytelling and Designing Narratives by Mr. Subramanya Shastry and Mr. Mahesh Nilakantan
  • Media & Design by Mr. Subramanya Shastry.

Students were given the opportunity to visit key facilities, including the Robotics Research Centre, Raj Reddy Center for Technology and Society at IIIT-H, and one day field trip to T-Works, and IKEA. These visits provided a practical understanding of the real-world applications of their learning.

The experiential learning aspect of the program included

  • Theatre skit performance guided by Ms. Suhasini Seelin,
  • Designing a story narrative through various media formats by Mr Subramanya Shastri,
  • Designing a brand using the five elements of Brand Identity by Ms. Ashia Avasthi,
  • Designing a board game by Mr. Shriram Bharathan

The final element of the program was a Design Challenge where students worked in teams over a problem statement, designed solutions and presented it to a jury panel.

Valedictory Ceremony

The program concluded with a valedictory ceremony on 16th May 2024, attended by esteemed guests. The Chief Guest, Prof. K S Rajan, Registrar of IIIT-H, along with Guests of Honor, Mr. T Gopala Krishna, Deputy Commissioner of NVS Hyderabad Region, and Prof. Ramesh Loganathan, Head of Outreach at IIIT-H, graced the occasion. Their presence underscored the significance of the program and the achievements of the young participants.

Conclusion

LoDEStonE 2024 was a resounding success, effectively integrating design thinking, sustainable development, and innovation. The program mirrored real-world scenarios where these elements are crucial for addressing modern challenges. Through engaging faculty-led sessions, hands-on projects, and real-world exposure, students were empowered to become future leaders in sustainable development and innovation. The program’s success was evident in the participants’ enthusiasm and satisfaction with the experience, reinforcing the importance of such initiatives in nurturing young minds.

LoDEStonE 2024 has once again demonstrated Pravaha and IIIT-H’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that nurtures talent and innovation, preparing the next generation to make a significant impact on society.