La Fondation Dassault Systèmes, India has concluded its new STEM initiative, “My First Aerospace Program,” in Pune, completing a multi-city programme that introduced 150 school students to aerospace and space technology. The programme was conducted across Bengaluru, Chennai, Gurugram and Pune, engaging students aged 13 to 16. The initiative was designed to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), while giving students practical exposure to the growing space sector and the education and career opportunities it offers.
La Fondation Dassault Systèmes, India conducted the programme in collaboration with SSERD (Society for Space Education Research and Development), a not-for-profit organisation working in the space education sector. Through “My First Aerospace Program,” students moved beyond classroom learning and took part in hands-on activities involving rockets, CubeSats and rovers. They were guided through the process of designing, testing, building and launching their own projects.
The programme combined basic STEM concepts with 3D technology and virtual validation tools. With support from skill volunteers from Dassault Systèmes, students were able to develop their ideas and understand how engineering concepts are applied to real-world aerospace projects.
The programme also focused on developing problem-solving, creativity and teamwork. By taking students through the complete process of designing and testing aerospace projects, the initiative aimed to give them an early understanding of engineering and space technology.
“Building an early interest in science and engineering is important for India’s continued progress in the space sector. By connecting school-level learning with higher education initiatives such as ConnectNext-Industry Readiness for Space and CubeSat Design & Development, we are helping students and educators prepare for future opportunities in the space ecosystem,” said Sudarshan Mogasale, Chairman of the Board of Directors, La Fondation Dassault Systèmes, India.
Nikhita Chadde, Co-founder and Trustee, Society for Space Education, Research and Development (SSERD), said, “India’s future in space will be shaped by the students learning in classrooms today. When young students get an opportunity to build a rocket or CubeSat, they gain more than STEM knowledge. They develop practical skills, confidence and an interest in pursuing careers in the space sector.”
La Fondation Dassault Systèmes is also expanding its work in higher education through its ConnectNext-Industry Readiness for Space programme. The initiative supports undergraduate students and educators through technical coaching and mentoring for CanSat and model rocketry competitions. It also helps students develop skills in space mission engineering and CubeSat design using virtual twin technology.
The school programme forms part of the foundation’s wider efforts to connect early STEM education with advanced learning and industry readiness opportunities in India’s growing space ecosystem. La Fondation Dassault Systèmes supports public-interest projects in education, research and heritage that use virtual technologies. Its mission is to encourage young people to take an interest in science and technology, support scientific research and help develop skills for future careers.
The foundation works with employee volunteers who contribute their expertise to partner projects. It operates through foundations in Europe, India and the United States. In India, it operates as Dassault Systèmes Foundation, a company with non-profit objectives focused on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.
