On 24th February 2025, a fascinating and interactive science activity was held at Jeevan Dhara, Indira Nagar, Cotton Green, Mumbai. This event brought together 20 enthusiastic children aged 6 to 13 years to celebrate National Science Day. The session was led by Ms. Vanita Salunke from YUVA India, alongside Ms. Priti, the centre teacher from Jeevan Dhara, and Mr. Vijay Powar from YUVA India.

Why Do We Celebrate National Science Day?

The session kicked off with Ms. Vanita Salunke explaining the significance of National Science Day, observed every 28th February. She introduced the children to Dr. C.V. Raman, the brilliant Indian scientist who made the incredible discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928. His contribution to science was recognised globally, earning him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930.

She highlighted that science is much more than just classroom lessons and exams—it is about curiosity, discovery, and innovation. Everything around us, from the mobile devices we use to the transport systems we rely on, is rooted in scientific advancements.

Why Are Fewer Children Interested in Science?

During the discussion, Ms. Vanita addressed the concerning trend of declining interest in science among children. She pointed out several reasons for this shift:

1. Too Much Theory, Not Enough Practical Learning – Many schools focus more on textbooks than hands-on experiments.
2. Pressure to Perform in Exams – Science is often taught with an emphasis on exams rather than curiosity-driven exploration.
3. Lack of Real-World Connections – Without practical applications, children struggle to see the relevance of science in daily life.
4. Technology Distractions – The increasing use of social media and gaming takes away time from scientific exploration.
5. Limited Awareness of Science Role Models – Unlike celebrities in sports and entertainment, scientists do not receive much recognition.

She encouraged the children to be curious, ask questions, and engage with science in a fun and meaningful way.

Bringing Science to Life Through Fun Experiments

To make the session exciting, Ms. Vanita Salunke conducted some engaging science experiments, which captivated the children’s attention. These included:

• Water Filtration Demonstration – Using natural materials like sand, pebbles, and charcoal to show how water can be purified.
• Balloon and Static Electricity – Demonstrating how rubbing a balloon on wool can create static electricity and make hair stand on end.
• Lava Lamp Experiment – Combining oil, water, and effervescent tablets to illustrate liquid density and chemical reactions.
• Mini Volcano Eruption – Mixing baking soda and vinegar to showcase an exciting fizzing reaction, explaining basic chemistry.

The children were delighted to see these experiments in action, and their excitement was visible as they eagerly participated and shared their observations.

Fostering Interest in Science and Technology

Ms. Vanita further emphasised how science and technology shape our future. She inspired the children to:

• Explore STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) as they open up exciting career opportunities.
• Learn about famous inventors and groundbreaking discoveries, including topics like space exploration, robotics, and artificial intelligence.
• Develop a curious mindset, as the greatest scientific breakthroughs start with simple questions.

She also shared the inspiring stories of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Albert Einstein, and Marie Curie, motivating the children to dream big and believe in their abilities.

An Engaging and Eye-Opening Experience

The children had a fantastic time exploring science and were eager to try similar experiments at home. They asked questions, shared their enthusiasm, and expressed a newfound appreciation for science. Many of them admitted they had never imagined science could be so fun and interactive!

Ms. Priti, the centre teacher from Jeevan Dhara, expressed her gratitude for the initiative and emphasised how hands-on activities help children learn in a more engaging and effective way. Mr. Vijay Powar from YUVA India also underscored the importance of encouraging young minds to explore science beyond textbooks.

Conclusion: Inspiring the Scientists of the Future

The National Science Day event at Jeevan Dhara was a wonderful initiative to engage children in the wonders of science. By incorporating hands-on learning and real-world applications, we can encourage children to develop a deeper interest in science and technology.

At YUVA India, we believe that science is more than just a school subject—it is a way of thinking. By fostering curiosity, encouraging experimentation, and making learning exciting, we can help children grow into confident, innovative, and inquisitive individuals.

This session was a small but meaningful step towards inspiring young minds to embrace discovery and innovation. Let’s continue to nurture curiosity and empower the future scientists, engineers, and thinkers of tomorrow!

🚀🔬 Happy National Science Day! 🔬🚀