Bangalore: Intel today launched the Intel Future Scientist program in India, aimed at enabling the next generation of innovators to have an outstanding grounding in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).  The Program is designed to help science teachers present their curricula from an inquiry-based perspective to help foster a spirit of research and innovation among their students.

‘Intel Future Scientist program', developed in India, was launched at the Asia Science Educator Academy in December 2011 to help make inquiry based learning an integral part of science education and support teachers’ efforts to help students  develop their critical thinking skills.

Intel will work with leading NGOs, social organizations and state governments to execute the roll out of the Program and reach close to 50,000 girls and help them develop scientific skills and expertise. The Program will give the next generation of innovators a solid STEM education through curricula, competitions, and online educational resources.

Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, Member of the Planning Commission of Government of India said that at every level, science in education “remains crucial for India’s continued growth as a knowledge economy. Kindling the spirit of enquiry through science in the early years of education among the youth can be an effective means of sharpening the thinking process. This in turn is crucial to become a successful researcher or an innovator and to be endowed with a scientific bend of mind in addressing problems of modern life.  I hope the Intel Future Scientist program will support schools across the country to strengthen inquiry based learning, spark curiosity and encourage innovation in the classrooms.”

 The Program consists of seven modules that are delivered over two days of training comprising inquiry-based learning, facilitating scientific inquiry, from the classroom to the science fair. The ‘Intel Future Scientist program’ is designed to inspire excellence in science and math and help teachers re-fresh their curricula, while learning how to spark curiosity and foster the spirit of innovation among students.

“Through our various education programs, we aim to raise the bar for Indian students by establishing world-class education standards. The Intel Future Scientist program is one of our efforts to accomplish this,” said Dr. Praveen Vishakantaiah, President of Intel India. “Technology is amongst the greatest tools to advance education and we need innovative programs that have challenging curricula to prepare our students for the careers of the future. Promoting and nurturing that spirit of inquiry among students is the primary goal of Intel Future Scientist program,” he added.

A strong math and science foundation coupled with skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and problem solving are crucial for their success in the knowledge economy. Not only do global learners create global leaders, but the world’s future depends on education focusing on creative and innovative STEM learning.