Teen launches tech solution to help schools use digital infra

Hyderabad: What began as a teenager’s curiosity inside a school tinkering lab has now evolved into a large-scale digital learning initiative for Telangana’s govt schools. At just 16, Warangal student Gundu Anirudh has launched Mission TEJAS (Telangana Jnana Avishkarana Sankalpam), a programme aimed at helping schools effectively use the digital infrastructure already available to them.Anirudh, now studying in Class 12, first explored STEM concepts, coding, robotics and IoT while studying in Class 10 in Warangal. Inspired by the experience, and influenced by his father, a govt school teacher, he began researching access to innovation-based learning in govt schools across Telangana.His findings revealed a stark gap. While only around 500 govt schools had tinkering labs, thousands already possessed digital infrastructure such as Interactive Flat Panels (IFPs), smart boards and e-learning content under various govt schemes.“However, when I visited schools, I realised the infrastructure was already there. The problem was not the absence of technology, but that many teachers were not fully trained in using it effectively,” said Anirudh.After developing the idea, he approached the School Education department, which supported him in launching a pilot project in Warangal district. He then brought together nearly 20 engineering student mentors from Kakatiya Institute of Technology and designed a curriculum that used the same infrastructure already available in schools.“The programme introduced students to design thinking, electronics, IoT, basic programming, prototyping tools and robotics through live interactive sessions conducted in Telugu and English. Teachers were also trained to facilitate the sessions and use the digital infrastructure more effectively,” he added.The pilot programme was implemented across 10 govt schools in nine mandals of Warangal district, benefiting over 2,500 students from Classes 6 to 10.He further shared that the entire system was built on Mission TEJAS’ own streaming and scheduling framework without relying on platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet or YouTube Live.The initiative also introduced digitally monitored assessments using image-recognition technology to reduce malpractices during tests.“What we have implemented so far is only the foundational layer. The larger vision is to build a student-centric digital learning ecosystem that can scale across every govt school in Telangana,” Anirudh added.“The programme has been very useful for students because it effectively utilised the infrastructure that was already available in govt schools. We have seen a noticeable improvement in student engagement compared to many other digital learning programmes,” said Saraiah, MEO Narsampet and headmaster of ZPHS (Boys), Narsampet.“The mentors explained concepts in Telugu and encouraged us to ask questions without fear. Now many of us want to learn more about technology,” said a Class 10 student from Warangal.