Pune, Dec 16: In a significant recognition of grassroots science education and innovation, Dipali Akolkar, Founder and Director of FunSmartism Intelligence Center, Pune, has been selected as an exhibitor at the 11th India International Science Festival (IISF) 2025. Notably, she is the only exhibitor from Pune city, chosen from over 1,000 entries nationwide.
Remarkably, this marks Akolkar’s fourth consecutive selection for IISF an uncommon achievement that highlights her sustained contribution as an innovative educator and science populariser working at the intersection of intelligence development, STEM learning, and scientific temperament.
Held from December 6–9, 2025, in Chandigarh, IISF 2025 was organised under the national theme “Vigyan Se Samruddhi – For Atmanirbhar Bharat.” The festival is supported by leading national institutions, including the Ministry of Earth Sciences, CSIR, Department of Science & Technology, Department of Biotechnology, Department of Space, Department of Atomic Energy, and Vigyan Bharati, with on-ground execution led by IITM–Pune (Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology).
A Journey of Determination Behind National Recognition
Akolkar’s selection under the Science Safari initiative an immersive and experiential science outreach programme is as much a story of resilience as it is of recognition. Travelling solo from Pune to Panchkula with extensive exhibition material and navigating multiple logistical challenges, her journey reflected the determination that defines her work in education.
“Every meaningful journey carries its share of struggle and sweetness,” Akolkar shared, recalling her early-morning arrival in Chandigarh amid the winter chill, followed by days immersed in the vibrant energy of one of India’s largest science platforms.
From over 1,000 nominations, only 30 exhibitors nationwide were selected for Science Safari placing Akolkar among a highly curated group shaping India’s scientific future.
Science Safari: Making Science a Lived Experience
Science Safari at IISF goes beyond conventional exhibitions. It is designed as a hands-on, adventure-driven learning experience that connects learners directly with scientific thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
At her FunSmartism stall, Akolkar showcased a wide range of activity-based learning tools and project kits that simplify complex scientific concepts while nurturing multiple intelligences in children. Highlights included:
- Paper telescope-making kits
- Astronomy model project kits
- Logic-building and concentration games
- Hand–eye coordination and visual intelligence activities
- Mathematical calculation tools
- Magic square challenges
- Geometry concept games
- Interactive project displays
Each exhibit emphasised learning through play, encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement—especially for young learners and educators seeking alternatives to rote-based education.
Bridging Global Science with Local Classrooms
A former software programmer turned full-time education innovator, Akolkar has dedicated her work at FunSmartism Intelligence Center, Pune, to strengthening scientific temperament among school children through STEM workshops, cognitive skill programmes, and experiential learning models.
“This recognition is not just personal; it reflects the potential of educators from every region of India to contribute to the nation’s scientific culture,” she said.
Her interactions at IISF 2025 with scientists, educators, traditional Indian toy makers, and modern educational toy designers—served as a bridge between her students and the broader ecosystem of scientific thought and innovation.
Aligned with the Vision of Viksit Bharat 2047
The exhibition and dialogues at IISF aligned closely with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, underscoring how grassroots innovation, traditional knowledge systems, and modern science can work together to build an
Atmanirbhar Bharat.
“I return with renewed commitment to make science not just a subject, but a lived adventure for every child I teach,” Akolkar said, noting the growing demand among parents and educators for meaningful educational transformation.
A Consistent Voice for Scientific Temperament
Expressing gratitude to the IISF organising team, Akolkar acknowledged the platform’s role in uniting researchers, educators, and science enthusiasts from across the country. “That is the true celebration and roadmap of Vigyan Se Samruddhi For Atmanirbhar Bharat,” she concluded.
With her fourth consecutive IISF selection, Dipali Akolkar continues to place Pune firmly on India’s national science education map, proving that impactful innovation begins not only in elite laboratories, but also in classrooms where curiosity is nurtured, play is purposeful, and science is made accessible to every child.
