AIM, Learning Links Foundation, and Shell India Unveil NXplorers Blended Learning Model to Boost STEM Innovation in Schools
In a significant move to strengthen STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education across India, the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog, in collaboration with Learning Links Foundation (LLF) and Shell India, has launched the NXplorers Blended Learning Model. This innovative digital framework is designed to enhance teacher capabilities and scale structured problem-solving methodologies within Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) nationwide. The launch event, held in New Delhi, also featured the unveiling of the NXplorers Coffee Table Book, which highlights the creative projects of young innovators from ATL schools.
Integrating Digital and In-Person Learning for Educators
The NXplorers Blended Learning Model combines in-person workshops with self-paced digital modules, enabling educators from diverse geographical regions to deliver consistent and effective NXplorers sessions. This approach aims to accelerate the adoption of structured thinking and systems-based problem-solving among students, thereby fortifying India's STEM learning ecosystem. By leveraging technology, the model ensures that teachers can guide and inspire students more efficiently, extending their reach and impact.
Leadership Insights on Innovation and Sustainability
At the launch, Mr. Deepak Bagla, Mission Director of Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, emphasized the importance of nurturing young minds for India's global innovation aspirations. He stated, "India's ambition to become a global innovation leader hinges on the young minds we cultivate today. Initiatives like Shell NXplorers complement the Atal Innovation Mission by introducing structured thinking and sustainability-focused innovation at the school level."
Ms. Mansi Madan Tripathy, Chairperson of the Shell Group of Companies in India and Senior Vice President of Shell Lubricants Asia Pacific, added, "At Shell, we recognize India's young talent as a key competitive advantage. As industries evolve with AI, clean energy, and automation, building future-ready skills is crucial. By empowering youth to think systemically and develop sustainable solutions, we are preparing a workforce to lead India's energy and technology transition."
Showcasing Student Creativity Through the Coffee Table Book
The NXplorers Coffee Table Book features 55 student-led projects developed using the NXplorers methodology in ATL schools. It illustrates how hands-on experimentation, structured thinking, and science-based approaches enable students to tackle real-world challenges, including:
- Clean energy initiatives
- Waste management solutions
- Water stewardship projects
- Sustainable mobility innovations
Dr. Anjlee Prakash, Founder and Chairperson of Learning Links Foundation, commented, "The Coffee Table Book captures the voices of young innovators who transformed everyday realities into solutions. With the Blended Learning Model, we are creating a framework where technology supports teachers, amplifying their insights and extending their reach to guide and inspire each student."
Expanding Reach and Impact of the NXplorers Program
NXplorers is Shell's global flagship education initiative for learners aged 11-16, providing tools in systems thinking, scenario planning, and creative problem-solving to address complex issues. Introduced in India in 2018 through a partnership with Learning Links Foundation, the program expanded in 2023 via collaboration with AIM, NITI Aayog, bringing structured-thinking methodologies to ATL schools across the country. To date, the program has reached over 4.7 lakh students in government and low-income private schools, demonstrating its growing national footprint and measurable impact on STEM education.
