Establishment and Operation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Laboratories improves practical learning for students in classes 6 to 12 by giving them hands-on access to modern science and technology equipment in dedicated school laboratories across Uttarakhand.
As of August 2026, the state has set up 82 STEM Laboratories and 12 Entrepreneurship Development Centres (EDC) to strengthen practical science education. The scheme is run by the Uttarakhand Science Education and Research Centre (USERC) under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Uttarakhand.
Establishment and Operation of STEM Laboratories - Introduction
Establishment and Operation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Laboratories is a state-level scheme that promotes scientific curiosity by setting up modern STEM laboratories in schools throughout Uttarakhand. It allows students from classes 6 to 12 to understand complex scientific ideas through direct, hands-on experiments.
The STEM Labs and EDC Centres were started in the financial year 2022-23 to build innovation, logical thinking and problem-solving skills among students. These efforts match the National Education Policy (2020) and aim to improve the skill development of young learners.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Establishment and Operation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Laboratories |
| Level | State |
| Scheme for | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Uttarakhand |
| Category | Education & Learning, Science, IT & Communications |
| Target Beneficiaries | Students |
| Sub Category | Resources for schools, Research & Development |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Science and Technology |
| Implementing Agency | Uttarakhand Science Education and Research Centre (USERC) |
| STEM Labs Established | 82 |
| EDC Centres Established | 12 |
| Tags | Student, Science, Laboratories, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, STEM |
Benefits
This scheme has established 82 STEM laboratories and 12 Entrepreneurship Development Centres across Uttarakhand. These labs help secondary and higher secondary students sharpen their practical skills. For instance, a student from a local school who wants to find out about robotics or advanced physics can use these facilities to perform experiments that are not possible in a standard classroom setup.
The main benefit is a rise in practical knowledge. Students get to work with modern tools and instruments, which builds their confidence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects. The EDC Centres also encourage innovation and entrepreneurship by giving young students resources, training and mentorship.
Eligibility
To use these facilities, a student should meet the following criteria:
- The student should be enrolled in classes 6 up to degree level within an Uttarakhand school.
- The student can access these laboratories if their school hosts one, or if they come from a nearby school that does not have these facilities.
Application Process
There is no complex online application process for this scheme. If a school has an established STEM laboratory, students should coordinate with their science teacher to schedule experiments. If a school does not have a lab, students should contact the administration of the nearest school that hosts one to request access to their facilities.
STEP 1 - Check whether your school has a STEM laboratory or an EDC Centre. If it does, speak to your science teacher to plan your practical work.
STEP 2 - If your school does not have a lab, contact the administration of the nearest school that hosts one and ask for permission to use their equipment.
STEP 3 - Carry the identification documents asked by the school administration to verify your student status before using the facilities.
Documents
Students should provide the identification documents requested by the administration of the school hosting the STEM laboratory to verify their student status.
References
STEM Labs and EDC Centres - Official Scheme Page
About USERC - Department of Information Technology, Uttarakhand
FAQ's
Which students are eligible to use the STEM laboratories?
Any student from class 6 up to the degree level studying in schools within Uttarakhand is eligible.
How many STEM laboratories have been established under the scheme?
The government has established a total of 82 STEM laboratories and 12 Entrepreneurship Development Centres across the state.
Can students from nearby schools use the STEM labs?
Yes, if a school lacks these resources, students should reach out to a nearby school that houses a STEM laboratory to inquire about accessing their equipment.
What activities are conducted in the STEM laboratories?
These laboratories are designed for students to conduct practical experiments related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects.
Can degree-level students conduct experiments in the labs?
Yes, degree-level students are welcome to use these facilities for their practical educational needs.
How can students from schools without STEM labs access the facilities?
Students should contact the authorities at a nearby school that serves as a location for these labs to gain permission for their practical work.