In Udaipur, a non-governmental organization (NGO) has established a maker lab in nine secondary and higher secondary schools with the aim of fostering creativity development among children. Interestingly, this initiative has been undertaken without the formation of any formal memorandum of understanding (MOU). The NGO behind this endeavor is called Vidyalaya Udhyam Association, and it is noteworthy that similar labs are also operational in two other private schools under their guidance.

On the contrary, the director of the NGO has refuted claims of having a formal memorandum in place. However, the director did acknowledge obtaining written consent from three officers as part of the initiative. Presently, the District Education Officer (CEO) has taken notice of the situation and has formally requested the NGO to provide a copy of the MOU, seeking clarity on the terms and conditions governing this creative development initiative.

Upon questioning the officials responsible for granting approval to the NGO, the responses were ambiguous and lacked recollection of the matter. What is particularly surprising is that, rather than seeking permission from the Education Department, the NGO opted to apply to the District Council for authorization.

The NGO currently operates labs in 11 locations in Udaipur, following its expansion from Delhi. According to the director, the labs will eventually become part of the respective schools after three years. The primary focus of these labs is to emphasize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education, fostering scientific thinking, promoting creativity, and guiding students towards careers in these fields.

Under the NGO's project, there is a three-year commitment to working on children's ideation. During this period, the NGO will provide necessary facilities, encouraging children to innovate and develop their ideas. Thousands of children have already created outstanding projects with brilliant concepts, and the NGO doesn't deny participation due to the fear of idea theft. It is important to note that if a national or international institution related to the market or science acquires these ideas, children may not have the ability to claim ownership of their innovative projects.

Maker Lab in these Schools

• Jhadol, Dhanmandi's Mahatma Gandhi School.
• KGBV, Dhol ki Pati.
• Maharana Pratap School, Chawand.
• Raomavi Salara, Salumber
• Raomavi Badgaon, Salumber
• Vivekanand Model School, Sarada, Salumber
• Subhash Chandra Bose School, Rai Ka Guda, Udaipur
• Raomavi, Navania
• Raomavi, Sarada

Source: Dainik Bhaskar