The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has unveiled its prestigious “Young Scientist Programme” (YUVIKA) for 2024, an educational initiative designed to ignite young minds’ interest in the mysteries of space and the universe. The YUVIKA, short for “YUva VIgyani KAryakram”, is an innovative effort by ISRO to provide foundational knowledge in Space Science, Space Technology, and Space Applications to school children. This initiative is part of ISRO’s strategic plan to engage young students, particularly those from rural backgrounds, and encourage them to explore careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The program, which targets young students, particularly those from rural areas, is a two-week educational adventure. It includes classroom sessions, hands-on activities such as CANSAT, robotics kits, model rocketry, and the unique opportunity to interact with ISRO scientists and visit technical facilities. Since its inception, YUVIKA has seen a growing interest, with successful editions in 2019, 2022, and 2023, attracting 111, 153, and 337 students respectively from across India.
The YUVIKA 2023 witnessed an extraordinary response, with over 1.25 lakh students registering from various Indian states and union territories. Selections are made based on academic performance, co-curricular, and extra-curricular achievements. The program’s curriculum is diverse, covering classroom lectures, robotics challenges, DIY rocket/satellite assembly, sky gazing, technical facility tours, and interactions with space scientists.
The application process for YUVIKA 2024 is set to commence on February 20, 2024, and will continue until March 20, 2024. The process involves several steps, starting with registration on the ISRO Antariksha Jigyasa Platform. Applicants must verify their email, participate in a SpaceQuiz, complete their personal and educational profiles, and upload verified educational certificates. A final verification certificate is also required to be generated and submitted.
Eligibility for YUVIKA 2024 is specific to students in Class 9 as of January 1, 2024, who are studying within India. Aspiring participants are advised to carefully review and submit all application details, as modifications are not allowed post-submission. For more information, students and guardians can visit ISRO’s Antariksha Jigyasa website.
This initiative by ISRO not only aims to nurture young talent in the field of space science but also reflects India’s commitment to fostering scientific temper and innovation among the youth, who are the future pillars of the nation.