"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire," said W.B. Yeats. This quote perfectly encapsulates the spirit of our recent workshop at Sainik School Kodagu. On July 2nd and 3rd, AEROGO had the privilege of igniting the flames of curiosity and passion for aeromodelling among a group of eager young cadets. The journey began with an adventurous bus ride and unfolded into two days filled with learning, hands-on activities, and unforgettable experiences.
Our journey started on the evening of July 1st, as two of us set out to conduct the workshop. We left our place at 7 PM and headed to the bus station, eagerly anticipating the adventure ahead. After a few hours of wait, we boarded the bus to Kodagu at 11 PM, embarking on a nighttime journey through the scenic landscapes of Karnataka. We arrived in Kodagu at 4 AM and, after a short cab ride, reached the gates of Sainik School Kodagu by 4:30 AM.
As we entered the school, the early morning calm was soon interrupted by the sound of a bell at 5 AM, signaling the start of the day for the cadets. Watching the students spring into action, donning their NCC uniforms and heading for PT, we couldn't help but admire their discipline and enthusiasm. The day began with a series of rigorous activities, from PT to morning prayers, followed by a structured breakfast routine that exemplified order and camaraderie.
Workshop Overview
RC Plane Workshop: Day 1
Once the cadets were done with their morning routines, we gathered in the Atal Lab to kick off the workshop. Our first session was a presentation on the fundamentals of RC planes. This wasn't just any lecture; it was a deep dive into the world of aeromodelling, covering everything from the basics of aerodynamics and the forces of flight to the history of RC planes and notable world records. We also introduced the various parts of an aircraft, control surfaces, and the essential electronics that make these planes soar.
With the theoretical groundwork laid, it was time to get hands-on. We began the fabrication of the wings, guiding the students through each step and encouraging them to explore and innovate. The morning flew by, and soon it was time for lunch. In the dining hall, the cadets followed a well-practiced routine: sitting in groups of four, with plates and food containers neatly arranged. The sound of the bell marked the start and end of their meal, a testament to their disciplined lifestyle.
After lunch and a short break, we resumed the workshop with the fabrication of the tail and fuselage. The students' enthusiasm was infectious as they meticulously worked on assembling these crucial parts of their RC planes. The day ended around 4:40 PM, but the excitement was far from over.
We were given a tour of the school's science park, where interactive exhibits and experiments provided a perfect blend of fun and learning. Later, we visited the nearby Golden Temple, a serene Buddhist monastery that offered a peaceful retreat after a day of intense activity. In the night, we visited the Wall of Heroes, a solemn place honoring the soldiers who died in service, with their photos and statuses displayed, reminding us of the bravery and sacrifices made by these heroes.
RC Plane Workshop: Day 2
The second day of the workshop began with the integration of electronics, a critical phase where students learned how to bring their planes to life. We guided them through the process of servo centering and setting up the control systems, ensuring that their creations were ready for flight.
After a productive morning, we took a break for lunch, allowing the students to recharge before the afternoon's main event: the flight tests. The excitement was palpable as we gathered on the field, which had a stadium-like atmosphere. Students and military personnel alike watched eagerly as the RC planes took to the skies. The live commentary from the military personnel added to the thrill, making the experience even more memorable.
The joy and pride on the student's faces as they successfully flew their planes were the highlights of the workshop. Each flight was a testament to their hard work, teamwork, and the knowledge they had gained over the past two days.
As we wrapped up the workshop and packed our things, there was a sense of accomplishment and joy in the air. The students had not only built their own RC planes but had also developed a deeper understanding of aeromodelling and a passion for aviation. Our return journey to Bangalore was filled with reflections on the incredible experience we had shared.
Students Testimonial:
Conclusion
The workshop at Sainik School Kodagu was an inspiring journey filled with learning, creativity, and camaraderie. The cadets' discipline and enthusiasm were remarkable as they gained hands-on experience in aeromodelling. Beyond the technical skills, the event fostered teamwork and deepened their appreciation for aviation principles. Visits to the science park, the Golden Temple, and the Wall of Heroes added cultural and emotional depth to our experience. We left with a sense of accomplishment and a renewed passion for teaching, eager to inspire more young minds in the future.
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