IISER Pune partners with Lodha Foundation for hands-on science learning initiative for school students – The

IISER Pune and Lodha Foundation launch a fully funded science mentorship program for school studentsThe application process for the Lodha Genius Science Circle Program with IISER Pune for students studying in classes 6th to 9th has begun from July 2026.

The program is being implemented by the Lodha Foundation in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune.The fully funded initiative is designed to identify and mentor students interested in science through hands-on learning experiences, collaborative projects, faculty mentorship, and interdisciplinary exposure. The program emphasizes scientific thinking, experimentation, life skills, and research-based learning outside the classroom environment.Application process and registration detailsStudents wishing to join the program must apply through the official application portal. Applicants must first register by creating an account through the registration link on the Lodha Genius Program website.After completing the registration process, candidates need to log in using their credentials and fill in the required personal information, including address, date of birth and other details.

Under the “Preferred Programme” section, applicants must select “Lodha Genius Science Circle with IISER Pune”, listed as the third option in the drop-down menu.

Candidates are also required to select their appropriate grade level before reviewing all the details entered and submitting the form through the “Save and Next” option.For application related assistance or technical difficulties, applicants can call the helpline numbers: +91 7678013523 and +91 8433529562.A program to focus on practical science learningAs per the program details, selected students will participate in weekend science seminars held throughout the academic year at IISER Pune. The sessions will include practical experiments, seminars, scientific discussions, and small group activities aimed at enhancing scientific understanding and analytical thinking.Students will also gain exposure to scientific instruments, laboratory methods and hands-on experiments under the supervision of the Lodha Genius team, IISER Pune faculty and researchers.

The program aims to introduce participants to methods of observational investigation and problem solving.Workshops covering science, society and technologyThe curriculum will include interactive workshops focusing on topics such as climate change, biodiversity, mental health, and the relationship between science and society. These sessions aim to encourage discussion, collaboration and critical examination of contemporary issues.Participants will also receive training in computational modeling, coding, logic and pattern recognition through applied science and technology modules. Experiment groups and project-based activities will form part of the practical learning process.Emphasis on teamwork, leadership and exposure to researchThe program will include group learning activities such as science games, collaborative challenges, storytelling exercises and design tasks aimed at developing teamwork and leadership skills.Life skills workshops will also cover areas including moral reasoning, emotional intelligence, perseverance, empathy, and time management.As part of the second year progression plan, a selected group of students will move into project-based learning under the supervision of faculty at IISER Pune. Their research work will progress from conception to implementation and will subsequently be presented at a scientific symposium.Students selected for the advanced stage will also undergo training in science communication, including writing, public speaking, and audience engagement.