From STEM to STEAM: How Indian-American sisters are reimagining learning in the Sundarbans school

Two Indian-American sisters are leading an effort to transform learning at a school in the Sundarbans by expanding the curriculum from STEM to STEAM, which adds arts to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The initiative aims to foster creativity and critical thinking among students in the region.

The sisters, whose family roots are in India, have been working with the school to integrate artistic elements such as drawing, music, and storytelling into science and math lessons. They believe this approach makes learning more engaging and helps students develop a broader skill set.

The program has introduced hands-on projects that combine technical concepts with creative expression. For example, students build models of ecosystems while learning about environmental science, and they compose songs to remember mathematical formulas.

Local educators have welcomed the shift, noting that students show increased enthusiasm and participation. The sisters plan to expand the initiative to other schools in the Sundarbans, aiming to inspire a new generation of learners through a more holistic education model.