Learning Objectives:
The session focused on the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship at the school level through collaboration between Institution's Innovation Councils (IICs), Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs), and School Innovation Councils (SICs).
The MOE Innovation cell conducted an online session on “Strengthening IIC Linkages with ATLs and SICs in Schools and Framework for providing Mentorship Guidance” on 31st July 2024 from 11:00 a.m. onwards. Mr. Dipan Sahu, National Coordinator - NISP, IIC & ARIIA, MBA/PGDM in IEV Program, MHRD's Innovation Cell, AICTE was the eminent speaker of the session.
The session began with an overview of the roles of IICs in higher education institutions, ATLs in schools, and SICs, emphasizing the need for a cohesive approach to innovation education from a young age. The main objective highlighted was to create a seamless innovation ecosystem by linking IICs with ATLs and SICs, providing mentorship, resources, and opportunities for students to develop their innovative ideas.
The various strategies for linkage are as follows:
- To conduct awareness sessions in schools to introduce students and teachers to the benefits of collaboration with IICs.
- Conducting hands-on workshops was proposed to equip students with practical skills in innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Establishing a mentorship program where IIC members guide school students, helping them refine their projects.
- Launching innovation challenges to encourage collaboration between students from ATLs and SICs was proposed to enhance their problem-solving skills.
- Facilitating access to IIC resources, including labs and online courses, for school students was discussed as a critical step.
The session outlined a phased implementation plan, starting with awareness and engagement, followed by mentorship and collaboration, and culminating in innovation challenges and resource sharing.
The expected outcomes include stronger collaboration between higher education institutions and schools, increased student participation in innovation activities, and the development of a robust pipeline of young innovators.
The session concluded with a consensus on the need for continuous efforts to strengthen these linkages, recognizing the potential of early exposure to innovation in shaping future leaders and entrepreneurs.