A team of high school students from the UAE established an upgraded AI and robotics laboratory at Mar Thoma Central School in Cherunniyoor, Varkala. The new facility aims to bring programming, automation and emerging technology closer to students from the primary level onwards.
The lab is the seventh installation under the Robotics, AI and Innovation Lab (RAIL) project. Kochi-based Unique World Robotics supports the initiative, bringing a student-led model for expanding access to technology education.
The upgraded centre replaces a basic laboratory set up at the school in 2022. It has modern infrastructure along with cutting-edge hardware kits. This will bring practical learning opportunities for children of all ages.
The laboratory will allow for the exploration of the concepts of coding, robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence by means of practice. The idea is not only to get theoretical knowledge but to work with the technologies directly.
This approach reflects the growing demand for practical STEM education. Schools have started to provide laboratories where children can learn how to solve problems and design technology.
The UAE student team also conducted a week-long training programme titled ‘Future Ready Yatra’. The sessions introduced students from Classes 1 to 12 to robotics, AI and coding.
The UAE student team included Nikhilesh Kakkar, Shaurya Choudhary, Aditya Anand, Kritin Satya, Aarnav Bhargava, Muhammed Mifzal Mahroof, Chanukya Teketi, Shyon Sable, Pranav Praveen Nair and Sana Kaushik.
The programme allowed students to interact with emerging technologies and learn through practical exercises. The visiting students also focused on building local capabilities through peer-led instruction. The RAIL initiative places students at the centre of the process. Student leaders identify underserved schools, help design technology facilities and train their peers.
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