Swaroopa Bandi from Dripstone Middle School has been named Secondary School STEM Educator of the Year at the Radicle Science Awards NT 2025, celebrating her work in making science accessible and exciting for young people across the Territory.
Known to her students as Roopa, she leads the school’s annual Science Fair, which involves more than 650 students and showcases around 170 experiments to families and the wider community. Her approach focuses on practical learning and linking classroom ideas to real-world examples, a style that has earned strong support from students, parents and colleagues.
Throughout the year, she has encouraged students to present their science projects at major events including the NT Science Fair, the Jingili Expo, the Henbury Science Fair, International Day of Women and Girls in Science events and other community education initiatives. One of the standout programs has been the STAR STEM Science Program, involving 30 Aboriginal Year 7 girls who were supported to explore new interests and build confidence within STEM subjects.
The award was presented by Minister Jo Hersey, Member for Katherine, who congratulated Bandi and acknowledged the work of STEM educators across the Northern Territory.
Roopa’s recognition has been welcomed by the school community, who say her enthusiasm for teaching has created opportunities that shape students’ aspirations well beyond the classroom. Her focus remains on helping young people discover what they are capable of and supporting them to take their ideas further.
The Radicle Science Awards aim to highlight educators who inspire curiosity and encourage students to explore pathways in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
