India, June 30 -- At the nondescript Science Activity Centre (SAC) of the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), a quiet revolution is underway. With its hands-on workshops and low-cost science models, the SAC has reached over three lakh students since its launch in 2017; igniting curiosity, nurturing critical thinking, and making science both fun and accessible.

Every Wednesday, the centre welcomes a fresh batch of 70 to 80 students; some of them having travelled hundreds of kilometres from Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Sikkim among others to be part of the half-day workshop. For many, this is their first experience with laboratory equipment.

The format is simple but potent: a two-hour interactive demonstration introduc...