Girls in robotics class
Something exciting is happening In a small tribal village in Gujarat. More than 100 girls at EMRS school are stepping into a new world where technology isn't distant, but something they can command with their own hands. C2C’s STEMLab and newly added Robotics program are helping girls turn their curiosity into confidence and learning into leadership.The classrooms are filled with energy, discovery, and new possibilities.
Early in 2024, C2C expanded its STEMLab curriculum to include a hands-on robotics program, adding a powerful dimension to an already impactful initiative. With significant investments in curriculum development, teacher training, and equipment, girls are now doing more than just assembling and programming robots. They’re sharpening critical thinking skills, tackling real-world challenges, and learning to innovate with purpose. Through coding, robotics, and ethical tech lessons, they’re gaining essential 21st-century skills that remain out of reach for many students in rural, underserved communities in South Asia.
A New Way of Learning
Traditional education often separates theory from practice. But at EMRS, robotics is now bridging that gap. Approximately 105 girls from Grades 6 to 11 have been involved in the C2C STEMLab curriculum over the past several years. This coursework begins with basic computer operations and internet safety, and progresses to Scratch programming, AI and machine learning.
The arrival of robotics in the 2024 academic year took their experience to the next level. Girls assembled their first robots, programmed movements, understood the role of sensors, and watched their creations come to life. "When I saw the robot move because of the commands I gave, it felt like a dream!" shares Bhagyashri, a ninth grader. "I realized that technology is not just for watching, it’s for creating too."
Suddenly, Science and Math were no longer abstract subjects. They became tools for action and innovation. Academic scores at the school reflected this shift over the course of the year. Science scores improved by an average of 12% and math scores by nearly 15% among participating students.
More importantly, the girls experienced growth that goes beyond what can be measured on a report card. They built essential life skills like creativity, confidence, communication, and critical thinking, and resilience. Riya, another participant, reflected: "Earlier, Science was just a subject to memorize. Now, after robotics, I understand why we learn it."
The Robotics program not only improved academic performance, it also sparked a new interest in technology careers among participants, boosted critical thinking skills, and encouraged innovation. Students see mistakes not as failures, but as steps toward success. As Divya put it: “I learned that making mistakes is part of building something new. Every time my robot didn’t move the way I wanted, I found a new way. Now, I won’t give up easily. Not in class, not in life."
The Role of the Guru Krupa Foundation
This transformative experience has been made possible through the generous support of the Guru Krupa Foundation. The Foundation’s support has enabled C2C to not only continue to run but to expand its STEMLab program and introduce new dimensions like robotics. Their continued investment in initiatives like the STEMLab, English learning programs, and Vedic Math curricula ensures that tribal girls are not left behind, but are equipped with the tools, skills, and confidence to thrive in a technology-driven world.
A Future Built on Confidence
At C2C, we believe in the power of options and that the future belongs to those who can adapt, innovate, and lead with integrity. Integrating Robotics with our STEMLab curriculum is one way we hope to instill resilience and leadership in the girls we serve.
The smiles of Bhagyashri, Riya, and Divya, offer some proof that with the right opportunities and support, anything is possible.