Mechukha, August 16,2025: In a significant step towards strengthening science education in Arunachal Pradesh’s remote regions, Education Minister Shri Pasang Sona on Saturday inaugurated the Pasang Wangchuk Sona ISRO Space Laboratory at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Mechukha, in Shi-Yomi district. The initiative is expected to open new avenues for scientific learning and innovation among students in one of the state’s frontier districts.
The state-of-the-art laboratory has been established with the support of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Muskaan Foundation. It has been named in memory of the minister’s late father, Pasang Wangchuk Sona, as a tribute to his vision and commitment to education and community development.
Addressing students, teachers and community members during the inauguration ceremony, Shri Pasang Sona stressed the importance of exposing young minds to modern scientific knowledge and technological advancements from an early age. He said the laboratory would serve as a platform to inspire curiosity, creativity and innovation among students while encouraging them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
“This laboratory is not only a tribute to my late father but also an investment in the future of our children. We want students in remote districts like Shi-Yomi to have access to the same opportunities and facilities available in major cities. Through this initiative, we hope to ignite a passion for space science and scientific exploration among the younger generation,” the minister said.
The ISRO Space Laboratory is designed to provide students with practical exposure to concepts related to astronomy, satellite technology, space exploration and scientific research. Equipped with educational tools and learning modules developed with ISRO’s support, the facility aims to complement classroom teaching by offering hands-on learning experiences that make science more engaging and accessible.
Education officials noted that the laboratory aligns with the state government’s broader vision of improving educational infrastructure and promoting scientific temper among students. By integrating modern technology into school education, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between urban and rural learning environments and ensure that students from remote areas are not left behind in the rapidly evolving world of science and technology.
Local educators and community leaders welcomed the project, describing it as a transformative initiative for the region. Teachers expressed confidence that the facility would motivate students to think beyond conventional career paths and explore opportunities in scientific research, innovation and space technology.
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Students, too, shared their excitement over the new facility. Many described the laboratory as a “dream come true,” saying it would allow them to learn about space science in ways they had previously only seen in books or on television. They expressed hope that the laboratory would help them develop new skills and broaden their horizons.
The inauguration of the Pasang Wangchuk Sona ISRO Space Laboratory marks a major milestone in Arunachal Pradesh’s efforts to modernise education and foster a culture of scientific inquiry. As the state continues to expand educational opportunities in remote and border districts, initiatives such as this are expected to play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of scientists, innovators and explorers.
