National (August 17, 2024):  In a world where technology is constantly evolving, K12 Techno Services (an Education Service Provider to Orchids The International School) in association with the Commonwealth Youth Council, Commonwealth Student Association and GUSD (Global Understanding for Sustainable Development) is proud to announce ‘Mekathlon 2024’, an international event designed to spark a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in students aged 8 to 18. The STEM Fest-Mekathlon 2024 will be held in major cities across India, including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Gurugram, Pune, and Bengaluru. Students from over nine countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Sri Lanka, UAE, Nepal, and Bhutan, will be a part of this competition. This global reach ensures that students from all walks of life have the chance to participate and learn from each other. The semi-final rounds will kick-start from this August onwards across India and internationally, followed by the grand finale on 23rd and 24th November 2024 in Bengaluru.

Mekathlon 2024 is a unique competition in the Indian K-12 space for several compelling reasons. The event’s global reach, spanning over nine or more countries, sets it apart from other competitions in the region. It aims to empower students by giving them the tools and opportunities to solve real-world problems through hands-on STEM projects. Participants will not only showcase their technical skills but also develop essential life skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability.

Dinesh Gajendran, Asia Regional Special Advisor-Commonwealth Students Association, Catalyst and Executive Director-Audacious Dreams Foundation said: “The Commonwealth Youth Council and Student Association is thrilled to partner with K12 Techno Services for the biggest STEM Fest-Mekathlon 2024. This global STEM competition aligns perfectly with our mission to empower young people across the Commonwealth. By bringing together students from diverse backgrounds to tackle challenges through Science and Robotics, Mekathlon 2024 is promoting the kind of international collaboration and skill development that will be crucial for our shared future. We believe this event will not only inspire the next generation of STEM leaders but also strengthen the bonds between Commonwealth nations through education and technology.”

Jimmy Ahuja, Head of S.T.E.M. at K12 Techno Services said: “Mekathlon 2024 represents an innovative initiative in STEM education, bringing together young innovators from across the globe. The diverse competitions are designed to demonstrate and apply advanced robotics components, showcasing participants’ designing skills and the practical application of scientific principles. This event signifies everything that we represent here at K12 Techno Services, giving students innovative hands-on learning.”

Shlok Srivastava, Head of Orchids Career Foundation Program (OCFP) at Orchids The International School mentioned: “At Orchids we have an exclusive OCFP curriculum which provides an early exposure to STEM, motivates and nourishes the students knowledge in Maths, Physics, and Chemistry. Further our ongoing STEM projects are intended to engage participants with practical problems, which equips students with key capacities relevant in modern job markets. It’s our constant endeavor to develop scientific temperament, cultivate critical evaluation, observation and skills in students. We believe that every child is a champion and through Mekathlon 2024 we aim to celebrate and recognize this intellect, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.”

Mekathlon 2024 will feature a variety of exciting competitions that cater to different age groups and interests, such as:

Mekathlon 2024 is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity for students to explore their passion for STEM – Science and Robotics, develop valuable skills, and connect with a global community of young innovators.