GANDHINAGAR, DEC 26
The Centre for Creative Learning (CCL), IIT Gandhinagar, hosted an ‘Exposure Visit’ and ‘Curiosity Exhibition’ on December 19 and 20, 2024. This event welcomed the 24 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) from across Gujarat, bringing together around 200 talented girl students who proudly showcased their innovative models and presentations. Among these bright young minds was Chaudhary Nisha Bhurabhai, a determined 11th-standard student from KGBV Karela (BhaiBhar), whose story is a testament to resilience and ambition.
-
A group of girls from KGBV Bhatiya, built and explained the working of the Hydraulic bridge, with an intention to bring something to the campus that was born out of their own curiosity from a story of Rameswaram Hydraulic bridge told by their teacher.
Nisha, with her classmates, presented a model of a Hydraulic Bridge inspired by Tamil Nadu’s iconic Rameshwaram Bridge. Her eyes sparkled with pride as she spoke about her journey. “When I was in the 9th standard, this project was started. I used to attend regularly back then. But during my 10th, I missed many sessions due to tuition and board exams,” she explained. “Now, I’m in 11th standard and I found these sessions helpful in my academics. Compared to other schools, we are more confident and can explain concepts practically because of this programme.”
Her determination to excel academically and pursue her dream of becoming a doctor is deeply rooted in her personal journey. Nisha’s journey has not been without hardship. “When I was 9 months old, my father passed away in an accident. I saw my mother step up and take on all responsibilities, even while battling with illness. So, I want to become a doctor. I want to help people and make a difference, just like my mother wished for me,” she says.
The CCL’s Curiosity Programme has been a cornerstone of Nisha’s academic and personal growth. Its innovative and hands-on approach to learning equips students with critical thinking skills and nurtures creativity. For Nisha and her peers, this exposure has been transformative. “This programme has boosted our confidence so much,” she remarked with pride.
Similarly, Vasava from KGBV Shankoi, Gujarat, not only displayed her amazing card performing skills but also explained the math’s behind the trick, reminding us of Persi Diaconis, the man who went on to becoming a Stanford professor from being a card performer.
Meanwhile, a girl from KGBV Hajarpura turned into mathematical artists, while not only demonstrating their crocheted projects but also explaining the ratio of the stitches to make a circular pattern.
And finally, this group of girls from KGBV Bhatiya, built and explained the working of the Hydraulic bridge, with an intention to bring something to the campus that was born out of their own curiosity from a story of Rameswaram Hydraulic bridge told by their teacher.
These are just a few of the many stories that we witnessed amongst the 200 girls that visited our campus as a part of the Curiosity Program and are a testimony to the fact that as a teacher you take just one step; your students will take 10. Listening to their explanations with a gleam in their eyes was a moment to capture in our hearts for a lifetime.
The two-day event was more than just an exhibition; it celebrated curiosity, creativity, and courage. By providing a platform for students like Nisha to showcase their talent and passion, the CCL continues to play a pivotal role in shaping young minds, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.
