The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), under the NITI Aayog, and the Office of Science & Innovation at the Embassy of Sweden, in partnership with Nordic collaborators—Innovation Norway, Innovation Centre Denmark, and Business Finland—are thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of SheSTEM 2024. This annual initiative celebrates the contributions of women in STEM and serves as a catalyst for inspiring young innovators to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
SheSTEM 2024 invited students from grades 6 to 12 across India to present innovative ideas centered on Battery Technology and Energy Storage (BEST) systems. The challenge, a part of the India-Nordic BEST project, aimed to foster sustainability by advancing energy storage solutions and promoting sustainable practices. Students were tasked with submitting two-minute video presentations showcasing their prototypes or concepts for addressing global energy challenges.
The competition saw an overwhelming response, with over 1,000 submissions from across India, showcasing the creativity, problem-solving abilities, and future-oriented thinking of young minds. The innovative ideas presented by the participants underscored the immense potential of youth-led leadership in sustainability, science, and technology.
Beyond Competition: A Platform for Learning and Growth
More than just a competition, SheSTEM 2024 provided a platform for students to engage with critical STEM topics and contribute to global sustainability efforts. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration, teamwork, and the power of collective innovation in addressing today’s global challenges.
Ambassador of Sweden to India, Jan Thesleff, reflected on the impact of SheSTEM 2024, stating, “Innovation and collaboration are at the core of a sustainable world, a world working hard to preserve itself. SheSTEM 2024 is a step in the right direction to help inspire the next generation to innovate and create solutions for energy storage and technologies. I am delighted that this year, the SheSTEM challenge is part of the India-Nordic Battery and Energy Storage Technologies project, bringing together Nordic partners to explore areas of partnership with India across academia, business, and government.”
AIM’s Vision: Empowering Future STEM Leaders
Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Mission Director of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), emphasized the event’s significance: “AIM is proud to be a part of SheSTEM 2024, a celebration of young talent, innovation, and the boundless potential of India’s students. This year’s challenge, focusing on energy storage and sustainability, directly addresses some of the most pressing global challenges. By involving students in this field, we are not only fostering future STEM leaders but also empowering them to play a significant role in shaping a sustainable and technology-driven world.”
Youth Innovation Leading the Way to a Sustainable Future
The success of SheSTEM 2024 underscores the incredible potential of youth-led innovation and the pivotal role that STEM education plays in building a sustainable future. The event provided a valuable platform for young minds to showcase their ingenuity, and AIM remains committed to supporting and empowering the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders in STEM fields.
As SheSTEM 2024 draws to a close, the initiative continues to pave the way for future collaborations between India and Nordic countries, driving advancements in energy storage technologies and sustainability efforts globally.