i-Lab

Expected Impact:
Empower students to become problem-solvers, innovators, and entrepreneurs by integrating design thinking, hands-on learning, and community-focused innovation into school education. The program is expected to enhance critical thinking, teamwork, and practical skills among students, preparing them for the future workforce.

Project Duration: Multi-year, with continuous implementation and scaling across multiple schools.

Overview

Thematic Area: Education and Entrepreneurship

Description:
iLab is a dynamic initiative that establishes innovation laboratories in schools, led by Grade 8 and 9 students. These labs serve as creative hubs where students apply design thinking to identify real-world problems, prototype solutions, and even create market-ready products. The program consists of multiple phases: need assessment, makerspace setup, Innovation Accelerator Program (IAP), and iJatra, a public exhibition where students showcase and sell their creations.

iLab not only equips students with technical skills like 3D printing, CAD design, and prototyping but also nurtures soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and entrepreneurial thinking.

Start Date: 2023

End Date: Ongoing

Status: Active – Currently implemented in 8 schools across 7 districts in Nepal.

Budget: $5,500 per school per year within Kathmandu Valley, $6,500 per school per year outside Kathmandu Valley

Team Size:

• 2 Program Leads
• 8+ Facilitators & Trainers
• 25+ Teachers engaged across schools
• 450+ Students participating

Outcomes:

• 8 iLabs established across Nepal (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Kavre, Chitwan, Siraha, Bara, Darchula).
• 450+ students engaged in problem-solving and entrepreneurship.
• 25+ teachers trained in design thinking and makerspace facilitation.
• Dozens of innovative student projects addressing local issues, from environmental conservation to economic empowerment.
• iJatra exhibitions successfully held, allowing students to showcase and sell their products.

The iLab initiative has proven to be a transformative program that bridges the gap between classroom education and real-world problem-solving. By empowering students with the tools and mindset to innovate, iLab is nurturing a generation of changemakers who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Looking ahead, EWBN aims to scale iLab to more schools across Nepal, strengthen the sustainability model, and expand opportunities for students to access seed funding and mentorship beyond the classroom.