The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi transformed its campus into a vibrant hub of innovation with the third edition of its flagship outreach program, PRAYAS 3.0, concluding on July 14, 2025. This month-long residential initiative turned school students into budding engineers as they built robots, mastered coding, and competed in thrilling Robo Soccer matches. Hosted by IIT Mandi’s Centre for Continuing Education (CCE), PRAYAS 3.0 sparked curiosity and technical prowess in young minds, setting the stage for India’s next generation of innovators. Ready to dive into this STEM adventure? Let’s explore!
- Key Points:
- PRAYAS 3.0 ran from June 16 to July 14, 2025, at IIT Mandi’s campus.
- School students explored robotics, AI, and IoT through hands-on learning.
- Highlight: Robo Soccer competition showcased student-built robots.
- Program aimed to foster curiosity and real-world problem-solving skills.
Why PRAYAS 3.0 is a Game-Changer
PRAYAS (Promoting and Accelerating Young and Aspiring Students) is IIT Mandi’s bold initiative to introduce school students to cutting-edge technologies like robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). Launched in 2022, this program bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world STEM applications. By immersing students in IIT’s state-of-the-art labs, PRAYAS 3.0 offered a rare chance to work under expert faculty and student mentors, igniting a passion for innovation.
- Key Points:
- Targets school students to build early STEM skills.
- Hands-on training in robotics, AI, and IoT.
- Mentorship by IIT Mandi faculty and industry professionals.
- Certified by IIT Mandi, boosting students’ credentials.
Hands-On Learning: From Circuits to Robo Soccer
PRAYAS 3.0 was a whirlwind of practical learning, with 5-6 hours of daily classes packed with exciting activities. Students dove into introductory coding, circuit design, mechanical prototyping, and problem-solving exercises. The standout event? A Robo Soccer competition, where students programmed and controlled their own robots to play friendly matches on a soccer field. For most participants, this was their first hands-on experience with robotics, leaving them buzzing with excitement.
- Key Points:
- Curriculum included coding, circuit design, and prototyping.
- Robo Soccer: Students built and programmed robots for competition.
- First robotics experience for most participants.
- Project-based learning with real-world applications.
Voices from the Field: Students and Mentors Speak
The energy at PRAYAS 3.0 was electric, with students and mentors sharing unforgettable moments. “The excitement on their faces as they controlled their robots on the soccer field was priceless,” said a student mentor, noting that most participants had never worked with robotics before. Dr. Tushar Jain, Head of IIT Mandi’s CCE, emphasized the program’s mission: “PRAYAS is about planting seeds of curiosity. We hope this experience shapes how these young minds think about learning and the world.”
- Key Points:
- Students thrilled by hands-on robotics and coding.
- Mentors praised participants’ enthusiasm and adaptability.
- Dr. Tushar Jain highlighted long-term impact on curiosity.
- Program fostered creativity and technical confidence.
Program Breakdown: A Month of Innovation
Spanning June 16 to July 14, 2025, PRAYAS 3.0 offered a structured yet dynamic curriculum:
- Week 1: Fundamentals of Robotics, AI, and IoT.
- Week 2: AI and Machine Learning applications in robotics.
- Week 3: IoT for robotics and cloud connectivity.
- Week 4: Advanced robotics and future technologies.
Students stayed in IIT Mandi hostels, with meals provided in the campus mess, creating a fully immersive experience. A capstone project allowed participants to apply their skills, with evaluations by IIT faculty leading to official certifications.
- Key Points:
- Four-week curriculum covering robotics, AI, and IoT.
- Residential program with hostel and mess facilities.
- Capstone projects evaluated by IIT Mandi faculty.
- Certificates awarded to successful participants.
Impact: Shaping India’s Future Innovators
PRAYAS 3.0 didn’t just teach technical skills—it inspired a new generation to dream big. By exposing students to IIT’s cutting-edge labs and mentorship, the program cultivated a scientific temperament and problem-solving mindset. With India’s tech industry booming, initiatives like PRAYAS are critical for building a skilled workforce in AI, robotics, and IoT, aligning with national goals for innovation and self-reliance.
- Key Points:
- Builds early exposure to high-demand tech fields.
- Aligns with India’s push for STEM education.
- Inspires students to pursue careers in technology.
- Strengthens IIT Mandi’s role in community outreach.
Tips for Students Eyeing PRAYAS 4.0
Want to join the next edition of PRAYAS? Here’s how to prepare for this transformative experience:
- Stay Curious: Explore basics of coding and robotics online.
- Practice Teamwork: Collaborate on school projects to build skills.
- Brush Up on Basics: Familiarize yourself with circuits and programming.
- Apply Early: Check cce.iitmandi.ac.in for updates on PRAYAS 4.0.
- Be Ready to Learn: Embrace hands-on challenges with an open mind.
- Key Points:
- Start with free online coding and robotics resources.
- Teamwork enhances project-based learning.
- Monitor IIT Mandi’s CCE website for application details.
- Enthusiasm and adaptability are key to success.
Why PRAYAS 3.0 is a Big Deal
IIT Mandi’s PRAYAS 3.0 has redefined STEM education for school students, offering a rare glimpse into the world of robotics and coding at one of India’s top institutes. From building robots to competing in Robo Soccer, participants left with skills, confidence, and a passion for innovation. As Dr. Tushar Jain aptly said, “PRAYAS plants seeds of curiosity,” ensuring these young minds are ready to shape India’s tech future.
- Key Points:
- First-of-its-kind residential STEM program for school students.
- Empowers young learners with cutting-edge tech skills.
- Strengthens IIT Mandi’s leadership in STEM outreach.
- Sets the stage for future innovators in AI and robotics.
