GRACE E-STEAM Expo 2025 Showcases Youth Innovation and Climate Action in Skardu
Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan — 29 September 2025:
GRACE Association Pakistan organized the GRACE E-STEAM Expo 2025 at GRACE Public School & College, Astana, bringing together more than 1,200 students, parents, teachers, community leaders, and partners for a vibrant celebration of youth innovation, climate action, and hands-on learning.
The Expo featured 300+ student-led projects demonstrating how children from grades 1–9 are applying Environment, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (E-STEAM) to address real-world challenges such as climate change, waste management, water conservation, and sustainable livelihoods.
Highlights of the Expo
Students showcased models and prototypes across four major themes:
- Climate & Environment: Eco-systems, glacier models, climate-resilient home designs, and waste management solutions.
- Makerspace & Engineering: Recycled-material bridges, machines, and energy models.
- Digital Futures & Storytelling: Student-produced videos and environmental awareness presentations.
- Girls in E-STEAM: Zero-waste initiatives, kitchen gardening, rainwater harvesting, and social entrepreneurship ideas.
The Expo is part of the internationally recognized GRACE E-STEAM Initiative, supported through the Global E-STEM Innovation Grant by Pratt & Whitney and NAAEE.
Learning Beyond Classrooms
In preparation for the Expo, students conducted field visits, surveys, and project-based learning activities, documenting environmental challenges and designing practical, low-cost solutions. Their reflections, models, and videos were displayed throughout the event.
Leadership Reflections
Khadim Hussain, Founder & CEO of GRACE Association, emphasized:
“This Expo reflects our children’s courage and creativity. Innovation can begin in a small village classroom.”
Principal Mustafa Aqeel added:
“We ensure every child—especially girls and marginalized learners—experiences joyful, meaningful E-STEAM learning connected to real-life futures.”
Teachers as Mentors
Teachers integrated hands-on experiments, teamwork, and reflective learning using low-cost materials. Through portfolios and observation tools, they documented students’ creativity, communication, and environmental responsibility.
Inclusive and Equitable Participation
The Expo prioritized inclusion by:
- Supporting girls to lead climate and sustainability projects
- Providing materials to students from low-income families
- Ensuring accessibility for children with diverse learning needs
Community Engagement
Parents, elders, local leaders, and civil society groups visited the stalls and appreciated students’ confidence and problem-solving skills. GRACE acknowledged the contributions of teachers, parents, volunteers, and partners in strengthening climate-conscious education in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Looking Ahead
Building on this success, GRACE aims to:
- Make the E-STEAM Expo an annual event
- Expand makerspaces and E-STEAM clubs
- Launch student-led green entrepreneurship and digital storytelling labs
- Strengthen documentation and research on E-STEAM’s impact
Principal Aqeel concluded:
“Our dream is that a child from any remote village can become a scientist, environmental leader, or entrepreneur—while staying rooted in their culture and identity.”
