STEM: Where Exploration Meets Innovation

There’s a saying, "Alone we can do so little, but together we can do so much." Anurag Gupta, CEO and co-founder, STEMROBO Technologies Pvt. Ltd., truly believes in this idea. He feels that STEM embodies this philosophy, combining science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, to foster a deeper understanding of the world around us. In a conversation with Corporate Citizen, Anurag shares his insights on STEM in India, its importance, the integration of STEM in education, and much more

Corporate Citizen: Can you explain STEM in simple terms, its importance in today’s world, and how it has evolved?

Anurag Gupta: STEM—Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics—offers an integrated approach to solving real-world problems. Instead of treating these disciplines as separate entities, STEM combines them to foster a deeper understanding of concepts. For instance, in soil testing, analysing the composition involves science, using sensors and coding leverages technology, employing tools and processes applying engineering, and performing calculations relies on mathematics. In short, STEM promotes a holistic approach, integrating disciplines rather than studying them separately. This synergy enables the efficient solving of real-world problems.

In today’s world, STEM is vital for driving innovation, enhancing problem-solving skills, and promoting project-based learning. It equips individuals for fields like AI and data science, making it a cornerstone of Industry 4.0, where engineering and science seamlessly intersect.

STEM isn’t confined to classrooms or industries—it’s woven into our daily lives. From mobile phones to home appliances, STEM underpins countless technologies that shape our routines and revolutionise how we live. It is said that science and everyday life cannot and should not be separated, which is why STEM has become an integral part of our lives.

CC: Walk us through some exciting trends or breakthroughs in STEM fields in 2025, and why are they significant?

In 2025, technologies like AI, IoT, AR and VR will be revolutionising STEM education. AI is enhancing non-technical subjects like social studies, while VR brings STEM concepts to life, increasing student engagement. This integration highlights how STEM now permeates every aspect of life. Moving forward, AI and computational thinking will drive STEM trends, transforming education and innovation.

CC: How do you envision the role of STEM in shaping the world in the next decade?

Today, we’re surrounded by technology, largely as users of STEM-driven products. However, STEM is steadily transforming education, from K-12 to higher learning. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has shifted the focus to project-based, hands-on learning. Initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs, Idea Labs in engineering institutions, and state-driven programmes under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan are paving the way for a skills first approach. These efforts are shaping a future where India climbs the Global Innovation Index, ushering in a new era of creativity and progress within the next 5-10 years.

"The future of STEM hinges on integrating AI and emerging technologies into education, fostering experiential and project-based learning, and strengthening industry-academia collaborations for real-world applications".

-Anurag Gupta

CC: What strategies will be crucial for preserving and advancing STEM fields in 2025 and beyond?

The future of STEM hinges on integrating AI and emerging technologies into education, fostering experiential and project-based learning, and strengthening industry-academia collaborations for real-world applications. This step will make learning more accessible, immersive and interactive.

Encouraging diverse participation, upskilling educators, and investing in state-of-the-art STEM facilities will be key, giving problem-solving a multi-perspective approach to foster innovation, enhance the quality of education, and promote continuous learning. Government initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs and skill-based programmes will drive innovation, ensuring STEM remains a dynamic force in shaping the future.

In essence, these strategies will help build a dynamic and solid STEM ecosystem. This will not only allow our country to thrive but also create a future where generations to come can drive even more innovation.

CC: How are educational institutions integrating STEM into their curriculums, and what challenges do they face?

With the implementation of NEP 2020, educational institutions are embedding STEM through Innovation Councils, Composite Skill Labs, and AI and Robotics Labs, especially in CBSE and state board schools. However, a key challenge is ensuring STEM is seen as a core component rather than just an extracurricular activity. Additionally, STEM disciplines need greater emphasis in engineering and medical admissions to attract genuine talent. Currently, many students pursue STEM through rotation learning rather than passion, leading to disengagement and inefficiencies. The focus must shift toward nurturing curiosity and enthusiasm for long-term impact.

CC: How are governmental education policies and initiatives influencing the development and accessibility of STEM education?

Government programmes and strategies are essential in promoting innovation within education. By enforcing policies that mandate technology incorporation and offering financial assistance for infrastructure and curriculum enhancement, educators are enabled to foster an innovative classroom environment. The Indian government has initiated multiple programmes to prioritise STEM education, encompassing AI, AR,VR, robotics and tinkering labs. Initiatives such as PM SHRI Atal Tinkering Labs and Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan, are transforming the educational environment, fostering creativity and critical thinking in students from an early age.

CC: What do you believe the future of STEM education and industry looks like, especially in fostering innovation and inclusivity?

The prospect of STEM education and industry will emphasise innovation, teamwork and inclusivity, using hands-on experiences and technologies such as AI, AR, VR and robotics to connect theory with practice. Parents are moving their attention from job stability to overall growth, inspiring children to become creators of jobs instead of just seekers. This transition can occur when children pursue their enthusiasm for STEM and adopt a creative, unconventional mindset, encouraging innovation and development.

CC: Could you share a quote or saying that inspires you when you think about STEM and its impact?

A personal saying that really resonates with me is, "More exploration leads to more innovation". STEM exploration encourages us to better understand the world around us, sparking new discoveries and solutions. I firmly believe in the CIC method—shifting from consumer to innovator to creator. By engaging with technology as consumers, exploring it as innovators, and eventually crafting our own solutions, we can pave the way for a future where India is recognised not just as a spiritual guru, but as a global leader in technology.