In a move to strengthen equitable access to quality education and deepen STEM learning among students in tier-2 and tier-3 regions, Nasscom Foundation and Applied Materials India Private Limited have jointly established seven state-of-the-art STEM laboratories across Government Schools in Malur, Kolar district. The initiative aims to give students from classes 8 to 12 practical exposure to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, alongside enhanced digital access and teacher training.
The collaboration forms part of Applied Materials’ broader commitment to integrate purpose into its business strategy by aligning technology leadership with meaningful community impact. Designed to foster experiential learning, the new labs feature robotics kits, DIY experiment tools, science and mathematics models, engineering equipment, and interactive learning materials that help students bridge theory with real-world applications.
Jyoti Sharma, CEO of Nasscom Foundation, said, “In India’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, technology skills are becoming a gateway to opportunity. Yet, students from underserved communities often lack access to quality STEM learning. Our collaboration with Applied Materials India brings STEM learning directly into government school classrooms, allowing students to learn through experimentation, creativity, and discovery. By strengthening both student learning and teacher capability, we are nurturing a generation of confident learners and expanding access to quality education and opportunities for youth to explore the world of technology.”
The program takes a structured implementation approach beginning with detailed assessments of each school’s infrastructure, followed by installation of STEM equipment and required furnishings. Teachers undergo specialized training on modern STEM pedagogy, lab management, and digital tools to ensure sustained improvements in teaching quality. Students will also attend workshops focused on innovation, design thinking, robotics, programming, physics concepts, and engineering principles.
Speaking at the inauguration of the STEM Lab at GJC Girls School, Avi Avula, President, Applied Materials India, said, “India’s next decade of innovation will be built on strong foundations in STEM. At Applied Materials, we strive to align technology leadership with meaningful community impact. By expanding equitable, hands-on science and engineering and strengthening teacher capabilities, we are helping students especially in tier-2 and 3 communities to see themselves as future chip designers, materials scientists and problem-solvers. This is how we widen access, build confidence, and cultivate the talent India needs to invent—not just make—for India and the world.’’
The program includes continuous monitoring and on-ground support, along with an online tracking system that captures lab activity, progress, and learning outcomes. The initiative is expected to significantly increase student participation in STEM activities while enhancing awareness of STEM career pathways. It also aims to build teacher confidence in delivering STEM curriculum and inspire students to explore innovation through tangible, hands-on projects.
With access to emerging technologies and practical tools, students from these government schools will be encouraged to think critically, develop problem-solving abilities, and create solutions for real-world challenges—strengthening India’s future talent pipeline in technology and engineering.
