“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”
-Martin Luther King Jr.
Education today is evolving, moving away from traditional textbook-based approaches and leaning towards skills that prepare students for real-world challenges. This is the mission that MakersBox, a learning pod founded by Harpreet Ma’am and Gagan Sir, has taken on since its inception. Launched in 2019, MakersBox recently partnered with Apni Pathshala to extend its reach and continue transforming the educational landscape.
Starting as a small centre to educate children in practical skills, witness how MakersBox began its mission, the challenges faced, and how it has successfully helped students by encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
A Vision Beyond Textbooks: How MakersBox Came to be?
MakersBox began as a dream shared by Harpreet Ma’am and Gagan Sir, both passionate educators with a desire to teach real-life skills beyond the limitations of traditional education. Their vision was clear: prepare students for the real world by equipping them with practical, hands-on knowledge
Established in 2019, MakersBox aimed to fill the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, focusing on essential skills like robotics, coding, video editing, and digital tools such as Figma and Canva. However, getting this idea off the ground wasn’t easy. Initially, they faced significant challenges—limited resources, space, and awareness in the community about the importance of practical education.
How did this Journey start?
In June 2021, MakersBox began with just a few systems, electronic kits, and 3D printers in a small robotics lab. Despite the limited space and resources, Harpreet Ma’am and Gagan Sir persevered. Word of mouth and pamphlets were their primary tools for reaching out to the community. Their hard work paid off when a small group of 3-4 children from class 3rd to class 8th started showing up to learn.
Their efforts soon expanded, and higher-grade students and even college students joined the pod. Yogita Ma’am played a pivotal role in helping MakersBox grow by providing access to a computer lab and supporting the efforts to spread awareness.
The Mission of MakersBox: Learning By Doing
MakersBox has a simple yet powerful belief: Education should be more than just theory. It should inspire students to explore, create, and solve real-world problems. Their mission is to teach students practical skills that are directly focused to the ever-changing world outside the classroom.
A major focus is on the 4 C’s in educating children:
- Communication: Students are encouraged to express their ideas and collaborate on projects.
- Collaboration: Group activities teach students how to work effectively with others.
- Critical Thinking: Hands-on projects allow students to solve problems using logic and creativity.
- Creativity: With tools like Figma, Canva, and AI, students design, create, and build their projects.
MakersBox uses a project-based learning approach, where students learn by doing. Whether it’s coding, robotics, or video editing, students engage with the materials actively rather than passively absorbing information. This not only boosts their knowledge but also builds confidence in their ability to tackle real-life challenges.
Unique Hiring Approach: Learning from Within
One of the most unique aspects of MakersBox is its approach to hiring. Rather than looking for external candidates, MakersBox often hires students who have learned within the pod. These students, now equipped with advanced skills, help teach the next generation of learners. This approach not only ensures that the teaching style remains consistent but also empowers students to take ownership of their education and give back to the community.
Successes & Key Achievements of MakersBox
MakersBox has seen incredible growth since its early days. The pod has become a space where students of all backgrounds come together to learn, create, and grow. Events organized in collaboration with Apni Pathshala have been a great success, allowing students to showcase their work and creativity to the community.
Key Achievements:
- Student Projects: From creating automatic dustbins to building robotic racing cars and designing prosthetic hands, MakersBox students are continuously pushing the boundaries of what they can create.
- Student Diversity: The pod welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, allowing them to explore their interests without the pressure of traditional academic standards.
- Support from Apni Pathshala: The collaboration with Apni Pathshala has provided MakersBox with essential resources such as computers, internet access, and training for students, which has helped the learning pod grow and expand.
One of the most significant successes has been the involvement of alumni—students who once learned at MakersBox now contribute by teaching their peers and helping the next generation of learners.
How did MakersBox Overcome Challenges?
While MakersBox has achieved much, there have been ongoing challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been maintaining consistency in student attendance and participation. For many students, this style of learning is entirely new, and the journey of making it part of their routine has required continuous effort.
Additionally, spreading awareness about the importance of practical skills—especially in areas where traditional education dominates—has been a challenge. However, with time and the support of parents and community leaders, MakersBox has been able to expand its reach and impact.
Success Stories that Have Transformed Lives
MakersBox has changed the lives of countless students. One such story is that of Monu, a student from a government school who joined the pod in 2021. Initially shy and unsure of his abilities, Monu soon learned to excel in robotics and coding. He now helps teach his peers and has become an inspiration for others in his community.
Another success story is that of a student who joined MakersBox in 2023 with no prior experience in digital skills. Through hands-on learning and mentorship, she is now proficient in various digital tools and has found direction in their academic and career aspirations by starting a YouTube Channel.
Join the Initiative
MakersBox is more than just a learning pod—it’s a community of innovators, creators, and problem solvers. As part of Apni Pathshala, MakersBox is committed to continuing its mission of teaching practical skills and empowering students to succeed in the real world.
We invite teachers, community leaders, and parents to join us in this journey. Together, we can transform education, moving beyond textbooks to a world where learning is hands-on, engaging, and fun. Let’s equip the next generation with the skills they need to succeed.
Contact us today to learn more about how you can be a part of this incredible movement.