Mumbai / Sambhal, 27 Dec 2025: A group of bright young students from government-run council schools in Sambhal district (Uttar Pradesh) has captured national attention with an outstanding performance at the Techfest 2025, the annual science and technology festival of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay — one of Asia’s largest and most prestigious platforms for innovation and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) engagement.

Trained by the Seva Nyay Utthan Foundation, these students, mostly from Classes 4 to 9, competed in complex robotics events such as CozmoClench and Mesmerize against over 250 teams of B.Tech college students from across India. Despite limited resources and coming from grassroots education backgrounds, they stood shoulder to shoulder with engineering students, displaying remarkable technical skills, creativity and confidence.

Their efforts earned them Certificates of Technical Excellence from IIT Bombay — a rare accolade for school-level participants in competitions usually dominated by undergraduate teams. Analysts say this achievement is a testament to the students’ unwavering dedication and the expanding reach of quality STEM education beyond elite urban centres.

According to reports, the success highlights the impact of government-driven education reforms focused on inclusive STEM learning and equal opportunity. Administrative support from local leadership, including the District Magistrate Dr Rajendra Painsiya, helped facilitate the journey of 11 meritorious students — including girls, students with disabilities, and those from economically weaker sections — to Mumbai for the event.

Basic Education Officer Alka Sharma noted that these students had previously earned recognition at other national platforms such as IIT Delhi and IIT Kanpur, and their latest success at Techfest adds a new chapter to the narrative of rural talent making a mark on national innovation stages.

Experts say the feat reflects how targeted STEM initiatives, mentorship and exposure can empower students from underrepresented regions to excel in cutting-edge technology fields — challenging the perception that high-end innovation is limited to well-resourced schools and colleges.