Pune based NGO constructs Science Park near Leh
Leh: This park was inaugurated by Aga Syed Abbass Razvi, EC PWD, LAHDC Kargil in presence of Stanzin Kunzang, Principal Druk Padma School Leh and local students now studying in Pune.
Set in a scenic half acre spot on the bank of river Sindhu, Science Park houses fun games like relative velocity, friction, strange mirrors, elevator, Angry Birds, quiz, xylophone, life sized board game, as well as information boards of well known scientists and experiments.
Students can enjoy the games, and easily learn science and mathematics theories practically.
“The purpose of this park is to generate interest through experiences based on the triad of scientific perception, logical thinking, and curiosity. Or simply, to demonstrate practical experiments and simplify scientific concepts and laws through games.” said Sarang Gosavi, Founder President of Aseem Foundation.
“Along with being an educational supplement, this park will also help connect Ladakh with the rest of India.” he continued.
Ladakh is inaccessible from outside for 6-8 months in a year. With a harsh climate, large area, and low population density, it lacks development and opportunities.
“Ladakh should be known for more than its natural beauty and tourist spots, and this will help create a new identity for it.” expressed Gosavi.
The Pune based NGO has been working in border areas for 17 years, and started working in Ladakh in 2012. Currently, 8 Ladakhi students are in Pune for their higher education under Home for Jammu – Kashmir Friends project, together with 8 school students from Kashmir valley.
“We could not have done this without people’s support.” also said Gosavi. “Local community and schools came forward to help in a heartbeat. People offered us their land, gave us tools and materials, Druk Padma school provided us with even more materials and transportation. Their students even worked on site to decorate the computer room.
Architecture and social science students from Pune were an essential part of this since the beginning. When we shared our strained financial situation on social media, netizens came to our aid, and contributed around Rs. 1.5 lakh collectively.”
As of now, at least 9 local schools will be active in running and maintenance of the park, including Druk Padma Karpo School, known for its unique education system.
Science Park is located near Sindhu Ghat, Shey Village, Leh, and is open to all secondary school students, free of cost.
There were about 80 students from 5 different schools and about 20 teachers.
