SIF Bahrain Renames Sastra Pratibha Contest to VVM–SPC

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The Science International Forum (SIF) Bahrain has announced a major strategic change to its premier science talent program.

The Sastra Pratibha Contest (SPC), a well-established initiative aimed at nurturing young scientific minds, will now be officially known as the Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan – Sastra Pratibha Contest (VVM–SPC).

This rebranding marks a new chapter for the program, which is organized in collaboration with prominent Indian government bodies, including the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM).

The VVM–SPC 2025 will continue its mission of fostering scientific curiosity, innovation, and critical thinking among students across Bahrain.

The VVM–SPC 2025 contest is open to students in Grades 6 to 11, offering them a platform for significant recognition and international exposure.

The program is divided into two main categories as Junior (For students in Grades 6-8), Senior (For students in Grades 9-11).

The top two students from each grade will be honored with the prestigious Sastra Pratibha title at the annual Science Awards Gala, a distinguished event attended by leading dignitaries.

All winners and participants will also receive trophies, medals, and certificates to celebrate their talent and dedication.

A unique feature of the VVM– SPC is the set of exclusive opportunities available to Indian citizens participating in the contest are Direct qualification for the VVM National Camp in India, Potential internship opportunities at premier research and educational institutions, including the IITs and other national research centers, and the chance to take part in educational tours to leading scientific organizations such as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), various CSIR labs, and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The competition is structured in a multi-stage format to assess participants’ knowledge and skills comprehensively.

The elementary & Intermediate levels will be conducted as online examinations.

The Elementary Level exam is scheduled for November 8, 2025, with the Intermediate Level taking place in the last week of November 2025.

Final stage The Advance Level which is the final stage, an in-person “Science Camp,” will be held in December 2025. Registration for the contest is open to students through their respective schools with a one-time participation fee of BHD 2/-. For further details, students and parents are advised to contact their School SPC Coordinator.

SIF Bahrain encourages all students, parents, and schools across the Kingdom and the GCC to participate in this transformative educational journey, which aims to inspire and shape the next generation of scientists and innovators.

The Science International Forum Bahrain held a press conference with students, parents, teachers, and organizers of VVM-SPC 2025, highlighting its ongoing initiatives to promote science education among young learners.

Dr. Vinod Manikkara, Chairman of the Forum, emphasized the importance of nurturing interest in fundamental sciences.

“We realized that many students were neglecting basic sciences in favor of applied or career-oriented subjects,” he said. “Our goal is to inspire a new generation of scientists and guide them toward research and innovation.”

Science initiatives

This year, the Forum has partnered with India’s national science initiatives, integrating the VVM program with SPC events.

Organizers expect more than 2.5 million students to participate online, marking a major milestone in outreach and scale.

In addition to talent tests and educational tours, the Forum organizes national science competitions authorized by India’s Department of Science and Technology.

Selected students from Bahrain receive full sponsorship to participate in these competitions in India.