Students from various districts have gathered at Royal Thimphu College for the 7th STEM Camp. With a growing interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, the camp aims to inspire young minds. This year, the initiative takes a new approach by welcoming both boys and girls, promoting inclusivity and shared learning.
The four-day camp is focused on exploration and innovation, offering participants a gateway to the world of graphic design, artificial intelligence, and hands-on scientific experiments.
Students have come from as far as Gasa, Trashigang and Samtse to be part of this experience.
Dorji Lodhen Phuntshok from Bjishong Central School, Gasa said “The reason I joined this camp is to become independent and due to my interest in science, I came here to learn. And I understand more through experiments.”
Tashi Wangchuk from Bartsham Central School, Trashigang said “I came to this STEM camp because science is one of my favourite subjects. I can explore when I visit other districts and make new friends. Moreover, since the camp focuses on science subjects, it will be beneficial when we reach higher grades.”
Unlike the previous camps usually which mainly targeted younger participants, this edition has opened its doors to students from higher grades as well.
Swayam Giri from Peljorling Higher Secondary School, Samtse said “I am a class 12 graduate and I wanted to take an IT course in college. So, I joined this camp to enhance my skills and knowledge on AI, cryptocurrency and cyber security.”
Srishti Chhetri from Dr Tobgyal School, Thimphu said “I decided to come here for the second time because the activities are really fun and interesting. Making friends is also fun. I woke up early and studied more as I was not studious before. However, after the camp I started studying, making more friends, and talking more.”
This year, the camp is split into two cohorts. The first concludes on Monday, while the second begins at the end of this month.
For these students, the journey into the world of STEM is just the beginning, with countless possibilities ahead of them.
Devika Pradhan
Edited by Kipchu