Soaring New Heights: Empowering students through drone workshops

In recent years, drones have emerged as a revolutionary technology with applications across various fields, from agriculture to filmmaking, and even disaster management. Recognising the importance of equipping students with skills relevant to the rapidly evolving technological landscape, educational institutions have begun integrating drone workshops into their curricula.

Hence, the School of Engineering and Technology at Apeejay Stya University, in collaboration with Indian Robotics Solutions Pvt Ltd recently hosted a two-day workshop on drone development. The workshop saw enthusiastic participation from Apeejay School, Noida, with a team comprising five class XII-A students: Atharva Gupta, Ariet Jha, Moloy Sikka, Ritik Singh, and Vipul Mittal, accompanied by Ms Sujata Bhardwaj, Head of the Computer Science Department at the school

Before the workshop, the students of Apeejay School, Noida actively participated in interactive sessions with BTech. students, delving into discussions about the courses offered and the facilities available at ASU. The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp. The atmosphere was charged with a motivating speech on entrepreneurship and the start-up culture delivered by the esteemed Vice-chancellor of ASU, who urged the students to embrace innovation.

The highlight of the workshop was when informative sessions on various drone terminologies and their applications were conducted by senior professors and the CEO of the sponsoring company, enriching the students with valuable insights. 

On Day 1, students teamed up with counterparts from Apeejay School International, South Delhi, to assemble a drone. Tasks included motor installation, extensions, and soldering wires to the power source. Through this hands-on activity, students gained insight into drone components and workflow management skills.

On Day 2, the students completed the assembly and witnessed its inaugural flight. They expressed their gratitude to the university for the valuable opportunity. Certificates were awarded to the participants in recognition of their efforts, and they were also given a glimpse of one of the remarkable creations by the sponsoring company.

Speaking about the workshop Ariet said: “I found the workshop to be incredibly informative and a fantastic experience. I particularly enjoyed delving into the mechanical aspects of drone technology. Given my background in the PCM, I am confident that the knowledge gained will be invaluable in my future endeavours. Exploring the programming side of drones has sparked my interest in pursuing a career in robotics, which will open up numerous opportunities for me. Such workshops are undeniably crucial and beneficial, offering practical insights that are instrumental in shaping one’s career path. I must acknowledge the invaluable role played by the teachers who guided us throughout the workshop. Their expertise and support were instrumental in facilitating our learning journey. Inspired by the workshop, I have taken the initiative to start building my drone.”

Atharva said that his visit to the university left me elated. “It was the first time I was part of a university environment, and it surpassed all my expectations. The workshop was incredibly enriching, and I gained valuable insights. Learning about drones for the first time was truly fascinating, and I am certain that the knowledge I acquired will be immensely beneficial. Understanding the fundamentals of drone operations felt like a necessity, and the workshop provided ample practical information,” he shared.

Such workshops offer students a hands-on learning experience, fostering creativity, and problem-solving skills, and preparing them for future careers in STEM. These workshops hold immense significance as they embark on the threshold of higher education and professional endeavors.