In April 2025, the Young Tinker Foundation launched a bold initiative in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh — Tinker on Wheels (ToW), an AI-powered mobile lab designed to take STEM education to the remotest corners of India.
The core idea?
“If students can’t come to the lab, the lab will go to them.”
Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the Tinker on Wheels van transforms open spaces — playgrounds, panchayat halls, and rural courtyards — into vibrant AI learning hubs. This unique model ensures equal access to innovation, no matter the location or resources of the school.
Why Sonbhadra? Bringing STEM to the Margins through Tinker on Wheels
Sonbhadra, nestled in the lush hills and forests of southeastern Uttar Pradesh, is a region rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and traditional knowledge. Home to vibrant tribal communities and a diverse ecosystem, Sonbhadra offers an environment where creativity and curiosity naturally flourish.
Many children here are first-generation learners — a sign of the community’s deepening connection with education and progress. Families and local leaders are increasingly valuing education as a path to opportunity, and children are eager to explore new horizons.
Recognising this spirit of learning and the region’s immense potential, we launched Tinker on Wheels (ToW) in Sonbhadra — a mobile STEM and AI lab designed to bring cutting-edge learning experiences directly to students across the district.
Our vision is not only to introduce STEM education, but to inspire students to apply scientific thinking and creativity to their local context — helping them see how their cultural heritage, natural resources, and everyday experiences can be enriched through STEM. Whether it’s understanding local biodiversity, exploring sustainable practices, or designing solutions for their own communities, ToW empowers students to become innovators rooted in their own identities.
By bringing hands-on coding, electronics, robotics, and AI learning to schools and gram panchayats, we aim to:
- Spark curiosity and creativity among young learners
- Build confidence and problem-solving skills
- Encourage girls and boys alike to pursue STEM fields
- Show how traditional knowledge and modern technology can work together
- Equip students with future-ready skills for a changing world
Sonbhadra is a land of opportunity — a place where young minds, with the right tools and encouragement, can lead the way in creating sustainable and inclusive growth for their communities. Through ToW, we are honoured to be part of this exciting journey.
Banwasi Seva Ashram has been working for years in Sonbhadra to uplift tribal and rural communities through education, health, and livelihood programs. Their strong local presence helps connect remote villages to essential services.
Mission Samridhi focuses on improving lives in rural areas through education, health, and community development. Their efforts support meaningful, lasting change in underserved regions.
These organisations play a key role in helping Tinker on Wheels reach and inspire children in the most remote parts of Sonbhadra.
5 Day ToW Workshop
| Dates | Schools' Names | Unique Students Impacted | Total Student Impacted |
|---|---|---|---|
|
20th, 27th Sep &11th Oct 2025 |
Shiksha Niketan Uchchatar Madhyamik Vidyalya Banwasi Sewa Ashram Govindpur |
139 |
139 |
|
23rd Sep, 14th Oct 2025 |
Jivan Shala Bakuliya Sonbhadra |
33 |
33 |
|
06th & 13th Oct |
Jivan Shala Ucch Prathmik Vidyalya, Manbsa |
54 |
54 |
|
23rd, 30th August & 09th September |
Jivan Shala Ucch Prathmik Vidyalya, Faripaan |
40 |
40 |
|
25th Sep, 09th & 16th Oct 2025 |
Composite Vidyalaya, Khairadih |
118 |
118 |
|
26th Sep & 10th Oct 2025 |
Composite School, Ahirbudwa |
54 |
54 |
A total of 438 students were impacted during the period from 17th September to 16th October.
Shiksha Niketan Uchchatar Madhyamik Vidyalya Banwasi Sewa Ashram
Jivanshala Purva Madhyamik Vidyalya Bakuliya
Jivan Shala Uchch Prathmik Vidyalya Manbsa
Jivan Shala Uchch Prathmik Vidyalya Faripaan
Composite vidyalya Khairadih
