Pune: REAT’s ‘Lab on Wheels’ Initiative Brings Practical Science Education to Over 9,300 Rural Students Across Maharashtra
Pune: REAT’s ‘Lab on Wheels’ Initiative Brings Practical Science Education to Over 9,300 Rural Students Across Maharashtra
Pune, May 12, 2026: The Kundanmal Firodia Auditorium at the Deccan Education Society campus became a centre of innovation and inspiration on Sunday, May 3, as the Rural Education Advancement Trust (REAT) organised its first convention celebrating a year of impactful work in rural science education across Maharashtra.
The event highlighted the success of REAT’s flagship “Lab on Wheels” initiative, which is currently benefiting more than 9,300 students studying in 79 schools across Pune, Kolhapur, Satara, and Sindhudurg districts. The project focuses on delivering practical science education by taking laboratory equipment and scientific guidance directly to schools in remote areas, helping bridge the educational gap faced by rural students.
The convention began with a unique blend of tradition and technology. Instead of the customary ceremonial lamp lighting, the inauguration was carried out using a specially designed mobile application developed by one of the REAT trustees. The gesture symbolised the Trust’s vision of combining modern technology with education reform.
All trustees of REAT are engineering graduates from the 1994 batch of Walchand College of Engineering, Sangli, reflecting a long-standing bond and shared commitment towards social development through education.
Chief Guest Yogita Apte, CSR Lead at Persistent Systems Ltd., appreciated the transparency and efficient execution of the Trust’s initiatives. She noted that the focused efforts of REAT are significantly improving science learning opportunities for students in rural Maharashtra.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Milind Kulkarni, senior scientist and Centre Head at C-MET, Government of India, popularly known as the “Swabman” of India for developing the indigenous COVID-19 testing swab in April 2020. He praised REAT’s grassroots approach and emphasised the importance of strengthening science education in villages as a crucial step in nation-building.
The convention also recognised CSR partners supporting the “Lab on Wheels” initiative, including Persistent Systems Ltd., ListenLights Pvt. Ltd., and H B Fuller India Adhesives Pvt Ltd.
REAT Chairman Vivek Tatke presented the Trust’s expansion plans for the coming year, while Secretary Sachin Patil and Treasurer Rajesh Mangolikar shared detailed progress reports. Teachers, NGO coordinators, trustees, volunteers, and alumni families from the 1994 Walchand College batch attended the event, which concluded with a vote of thanks.
