Monisha launches `F1-in-Schools’ programme
New Delhi, 26 Oct 2012: Indian-born Sauber Team Principal Monisha Kaltenborn, one of the FIA’s Women in Motorsport Ambassadors, has become a Patron of F1 in Schools India, following the national launch of this worldwide educational challenge during the occasion of the FIA Formula 1 Airtel Indian Grand Prix.
F1 in Schools is the only truly global educational programme and its main aim is to change perceptions of science, technology, engineering and maths by creating a fun and exciting learning environment for young people to develop an informed view about careers in engineering, Formula One, science, marketing and technology. With over one million youngsters aged between nine and 19 from more than 20,000 schools taking part this year, the programme is already operating in more than 40 countries, with India becoming the latest nation to join.
Indian-born Kaltenborn, Team Principal of the Sauber F1 Team, attended the launch in Greater Noida, New Delhi, where the F1 in Schools starter kit was officially unveiled and she spent time talking to the students about her life in Formula One.
“I’m delighted to see that F1 in Schools is now launching its programme in India, not only because I have Indian roots, but also because of the growing importance of this country,” said Monisha. “I’m sure there are many Indian students who are keen to participate. There is so much talent in this country and I’m pleased that I was given the opprtunity to support this programme. And, as a member of the Women in Motorsport Commission, I would be particularly pleased to see this programme attract more girls and women to become involved in motorsport in the long term.”
Students participating in F1 in Schools are tasked with designing, constructing and racing a scale model Formula One car powered by compressed air. In addition to complying with the technical rules and regulations, the students are charged with preparing a business and sponsorship plan before taking to the track with their model Formula One car. This year’s eighth F1 in Schools World Finals will be held in Abu Dhabi from 29-31 October, coinciding with the FIA Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. More than 250 students from around the world – over 30% of whom are girls – are expected to attend after winning national finals in their home countries.
Monisha Kaltenborn joins a host of other personalities from Formula One who have committed to being Patrons over the years, including Martin Whitmarsh, Adrian Newey and Ross Brawn, as well as Bernie Ecclestone and Formula One Management who have lent their support to the challenge since its inception in 2005.
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