Abhay Bhutada Foundation Brings Science to Life in Rural Schools

Schools in Maharashtra’s Maval and Mulshi tehsils are witnessing a noticeable change in the way children learn science—one that is practical, accessible, and engaging. The change is driven by the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, which has introduced its LearnByDoing initiative to empower rural students with real scientific experiences.

TL;DR: Instead of relying solely on textbooks and blackboards, students now use Mini‑STEM Labs to explore, build, and interact with science in a way that encourages genuine understanding. These labs include essential science tools designed for young learners and are aligned with school curricula while also introducing students to newer technologies.

Bringing Science to Life with Mini‑STEM Labs

Each Mini‑STEM Lab distributed under the LearnByDoing initiative includes essential learning tools like periscopes, microscopes, components for simple robotics, and introductory 3D printing materials. These kits allow students to see, touch, and understand complex concepts through experiments and small projects.

The shift from rote learning to active participation has been met with strong approval from teachers and parents. Teachers report that students are now more focused in class, quicker to ask insightful questions, and more comfortable engaging in discussions. At home, parents notice their children are more eager to attend school and express genuine excitement about science lessons.

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Scaling What Works Across Villages

The initiative in Maval and Mulshi is a continuation of the foundation’s earlier success in other parts of Maharashtra. Previously, STEM kits were distributed to more than 2,000 students across eight rural schools in the Pune district—including locations like Kelgaon, Bursewadi, Bahul, Bhose, and more.

These early efforts proved how even basic access to practical tools could create significant learning outcomes. Encouraged by the results, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation has since scaled up its support, reaching more schools in remote areas that typically lack such resources.

Many of the students experiencing these tools had never handled a microscope or participated in a science experiment before. For them, this was more than just a new lesson—it was a completely new way of thinking.

Fostering Curiosity Through Projects and Contests

The foundation’s educational efforts go beyond providing physical tools. The LearnByDoing program also hosts science quizzes, themed competitions, and mini research projects. These activities introduce children to real-world scientific challenges and encourage teamwork, innovation, and communication.

Topics like the future of renewable energy and the practical use of robotics in daily life help children understand science as a living subject connected to their world. Such exposure plays a key role in developing skills that will be essential in higher studies and modern careers.

These interactive challenges also help teachers identify students with a natural inclination for scientific thinking, allowing for better mentoring and encouragement.

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Bridging the Educational Divide

CA Abhay Bhutada has often spoken about the need to ensure that every child, no matter where they live, has access to the tools that allow them to succeed. His foundation aims to narrow the gap between well-funded urban schools and government schools in rural areas by ensuring that students everywhere can benefit from practical science learning.

In many villages, science education still happens through pictures in books. The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s efforts are changing that. By giving children real instruments to explore with, the foundation is giving them a reason to be curious, ask questions, and think critically.

The outcome is not only better academic performance but also an increased belief among students that they too can aspire to careers in science, engineering, and technology.

Designed for Long-Term Change

What sets the Abhay Bhutada Foundation apart is its thoughtful and systematic approach. Each school receives not only STEM kits but also assistance in integrating the tools into daily teaching. Feedback is gathered from teachers, and results are tracked over time to measure the program’s effectiveness.

Beyond just distributing materials, the foundation focuses on building a culture of learning and experimentation that will last. With every expansion, it aims to bring more schools and students into the fold—ensuring that no child is left behind due to a lack of resources. To know more about the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, you can click here.

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Conclusion 

The Abhay Bhutada Foundation’s LearnByDoing initiative represents more than just a donation drive—it is a complete shift in how education is delivered to children in rural India. By replacing chalk-and-talk methods with hands-on exploration, the foundation is unlocking new potential in young learners.

This approach is already showing strong results, from better classroom engagement to stronger academic interest. With continued focus and expansion, the foundation is setting the stage for a future where every child, regardless of geography, has access to quality science education and the tools to dream bigger.

FAQs

1. What is the LearnByDoing initiative supported by the Abhay Bhutada Foundation? 

It is a hands-on education program that the Abhay Bhutada Foundation has partnered with Sakar Eduskills to introduce Mini‑STEM Labs into rural schools, enabling students to learn science and math through real experiments and interactive activities.

2. How many students have been impacted by this initiative? 

The program has already benefited over 2,000 students directly through STEM kit distribution in the Pune region and expansion across tehsils like Maval and Mulshi. Overall, the foundation’s initiatives have reached more than 50,000 people in Maharashtra.

3. Does the foundation only work in education?

No, the Abhay Bhutada Foundation also supports healthcare and sports programs in rural communities, ensuring holistic development for underserved populations.