Is Tapi's Education Initiative Truly Inspirational?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 28 tribal students experienced a life-changing visit to ISRO.
- The initiative fosters a scientific mindset among tribal youth.
- Exposure to space technology can lead to careers in science and technology.
- Educational tours like this can be replicated in other districts.
- Students were selected based on a rigorous testing process.
Surat, Aug 13 (NationPress) As part of the 'Tapi ke Taare' initiative, 28 tribal students from 15 government schools in Gujarat's Tapi district embarked on their inaugural flight to Chennai to explore ISRO's esteemed Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, a journey that has profoundly influenced their future goals.
Upon their return to Surat airport on Wednesday, they were greeted by Gujarat's Tribal Development and Education Minister Kuber Dindor, Forest and Environment Minister and district in-charge Mukesh Patel, along with various district officials.
During an interactive gathering at the airport conference hall, the enthusiastic students recounted their thrilling experience of witnessing India's space program firsthand, from rocket launch towers to vehicle assembly buildings.
Minister Dindor praised the initiative as “inspirational” and a pioneering effort in Gujarat, designed to cultivate scientific curiosity among tribal youth.
“These educational excursions will soon be expanded to other tribal districts,” he remarked, describing the trips as a “stepping stone” towards careers in science, technology, and space research.
Referencing national leaders, Minister Dindor connected the mission to India’s scientific aspirations — from Lal Bahadur Shastri’s ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ to Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s addition of ‘Jai Vigyan’, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Jai Anusandhan’.
Minister Patel commended the students, labeling them as “a brilliant example of talent” in government schools.
He emphasized that the educational journey exposed them to ISRO's research, India’s space milestones, and various cultural experiences — from savoring Chennai’s dosas to delving into rocket science.
The selection process for this tour involved a rigorous 100-mark test based on the Class 9 and 10 science syllabus, ensuring that only the most promising candidates were chosen.
The students collectively described the ISRO visit as “life-changing”, highlighting their insights into rocket assembly, launch procedures, satellite applications, and the complexities of space work.
They expressed that this experience has motivated them to pursue careers in science and space exploration.
Officials, including Tapi District Collector Jayantsinh Rathod and Joint Director of Information Amit Gadhvi, were also present at the welcome ceremony.