Hands-on Science Arrives in Yelechakanahalli: Inauguration of Lab Stations in Mandya

On July 18, 2025, the Government High School in Yelechakanahalli, Mandya district, came alive with joy, anticipation, and a renewed sense of direction.. This school hosted the inauguration of Kriya Lab Stations — a significant milestone in making science more accessible, hands-on, and joyful for children in rural Karnataka.

This initiative by Prayoga, with support from Merck Life Science India, is part of a long-term vision to bring experiential science learning to government schools and students around 11500+ from Grades 6 to 10. For students who have rarely had access to well-equipped science labs, Kriya represents a chance to explore, question, and discover. The aim is to ensure that scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and joyful discovery become accessible to all children, irrespective of their geographic or economic background.

Teachers, students, school leaders, and community members gathered in celebration. Shri Basavaraju, the Head Teacher of the host school, warmly welcomed the audience. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed — a symbolic gesture to mark the beginning of a new phase in science education.

Shri Vallish Herur, Managing Trustee of Prayoga, delivered an insightful address, reminding the audience that science cannot be taught only through textbooks. Drawing parallels with learning to swim, he said that real understanding comes through doing, failing, and trying again. “Children must be allowed to explore without fear,” he said, thanking Merck for making this vision a reality.

Dr H.S. Nagaraja, the guiding force behind Prayoga’s vision. He shared a personal story about burning a transistor and how that mistake taught him more than any lesson could. His words were a powerful reminder that failure is not the opposite of learning but a part of it.

Shri Dhananjay Singh from Merck Life Science India spoke straight to the hearts of the students. With a gentle smile and spark in his eyes, he reminded them how powerful a simple question can be. “Keep asking ‘why’,” he said, “because that’s where science begins — with curiosity.” He encouraged them not just to listen or read, but to try things with their own hands. “When you experiment, when you explore,” he said, “you begin to truly understand how the world works.” His words left the young minds thoughtful — and perhaps, just a little more curious than before.

The event was also attended by Shri Chandrashekhar from SSK Mandya and Shri B S Srikanta Prasad, both of whom applauded the initiative and stressed the need for more such efforts that go beyond rote learning.

Smt Veena Samartha from Prayoga offered the vote of thanks, expressing deep appreciation for the collaboration and effort from all involved. As the program came to an end, what stayed behind was more than just the excitement of new lab kits. This is a beginning where children will not only learn science, but enjoy it, try it out, and ask questions without fear.

The support from Merck Life Science India made this possible. For Prayoga, this partnership is about a shared belief in giving every child the chance to explore and experience science. With the support of Merck, Prayoga looks forward to reaching many more students and making science learning meaningful and joyful.