51�Թ���

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Ms Neha Khare, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Country Head at Oracle, as the Guest of Honour, and Mr Sudhir Bhatnagar, CEO of the Society for All Round Development (SARD). The celebration, which was also attended by the school’s staff and students, began with an energetic performance by the school’s all-girls band. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and ribbon-cutting to mark the official opening of the new lab. 

The newly inaugurated lab is designed to ignite curiosity and innovation among students through interactive tools that bring STEM to life. It features advanced models to help students visualise complex scientific principles. This includes a 3D modern periodic table, which provides detailed information on every element, along with exhibits on the human torso, Newton’s Disc, Newton’s Cradle and the ball-and-stick model. Also equipped with VR systems and an interactive flat panel (IFP), the lab transforms classrooms into immersive learning spaces where students can conduct virtual experiments and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. 

Speaking at the event, Ms Khare encouraged students to pursue science as a career and develop technologies for the betterment of society.  

“I encourage you all to contribute to the nation’s progress by exploring science, developing technology and creating innovative projects,” Ms Khare said. “Use the interactive flat panel and VR tools to bring concepts to life and fuel your curiosity.” 

Dr Trisha Sen, Head of Academics for the Aga Khan Education Service, India, expressed gratitude to Oracle and SARD for their collaboration and highlighted the school’s ongoing commitment to empowering girls through STEM education.  

“As an all-girls school, we are committed to providing unparalleled opportunities for students and teachers,” Dr Sen said. “Gaining knowledge is one aspect of learning but applying that knowledge in the real world is the true test.” 

Additionally, Mr Bhatnagar highlighted the importance of technology in enhancing learning experiences, emphasising that modern educational apps and tools can make education more engaging and accessible.  

Guests later explored the lab, witnessing live demonstrations of the VR headsets, the IFP and working models. The IFP offered an immersive 3D exploration of the human eye through interactive visuals and quizzes. Meanwhile, the VR headsets transported students inside the human circulatory system, letting them trace the flow of blood through arteries and veins – making complex science concepts come alive through experiential learning.  

Students also expressed their excitement about the new lab. Grade 9 student Khadija Kardame shared that the lab will make science more engaging through VR and interactive tools, while Grade 9 student Zoya Qureshi added that it will make learning fun and easy to understand. 

With the launch of the STEM and VR lab, the Diamond Jubilee High School for Girls, Mumbai reaffirms its commitment to providing quality education that will equip students with the 21st-century skills needed to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.