IITM Pravartak opens registrations for free ‘Out of the Box Thinking’ mathematics course
Chennai, July 21 (TNT): IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation (IITMPTF) has opened registrations for the latest batch of its free online ‘Out of the Box Thinking’ (OOBT) through Mathematics course aimed at developing creativity, critical thinking, analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills among learners across India.
The programme is open to school and college students, educators, researchers, working professionals, parents and lifelong learners.
Registrations will remain open till August 6, while the next batch will commence on August 7, the Institute said in a release here on Tuesday.
Designed and conducted by mathematics educator and Aryabhatta Institute of Mathematical Sciences Founder-Director Sadagopan Rajesh, the course seeks to encourage innovative approaches to mathematical thinking and real-world problem-solving.
Calling upon students across the country to enrol, IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti said out-of-the-box thinking in mathematics was essential for solving real-world problems through innovation.
He said such an approach encourages learners to move beyond conventional formulae and methods, helping them question assumptions, explore alternatives and develop critical thinking skills that can drive breakthroughs in engineering, medical sciences and other fields.
The OOBT programme comprises four progressive levels, each spread over 10 weeks with periodic assignments and guided solutions.
The course is offered by IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, a Section 8 company promoted by IIT Madras and funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
Participants will also have the option of appearing for an in-person proctored examination at designated centres across the country on payment of a nominal fee.
Successful candidates will receive a graded certificate issued by IITM Pravartak. Details of the examination schedule and centres will be announced later.
Sadagopan Rajesh said the programme had been designed to help learners develop logical reasoning, creativity and confidence in solving problems through multiple approaches.
“Mathematics is not just about finding the right answer, but about exploring different ways of thinking and understanding concepts deeply. Through this free initiative, we hope to make quality mathematical learning accessible to every learner and inspire students to think beyond conventional methods,” he said.
As part of efforts to expand the programme’s reach, IITM Pravartak has invited schools to nominate teachers as Institute Coordinators or Single Point of Contact (SPOCs) to facilitate student participation, registrations and communication.
The foundation has partnered with BodhBridge Education for nationwide outreach and coordination with schools. It also plans to recognise schools and coordinators that make significant contributions towards expanding the initiative.
Interested learners and schools can register through the IITM Pravartak website before the August 6 deadline.
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