Thiruvalla: A mini solar-powered jeep developed by students of Vennikkulam Government Polytechnic College stole the spotlight at the Mini Disha Higher Education Fair, jointly organised by the General Education Department and the Career Guidance and Adolescent Counselling Cell of the Higher Secondary Department.

The jeep, which runs entirely on solar energy, can reach speeds of up to 60 km per hour and cover 90 km on a single charge. It can accommodate six passengers, including the driver.

All components of the vehicle, except the battery, were developed by the college’s automobile engineering students. The battery was imported from China.

At the same event, students of the SDC Cosmetology course at Kannassa Smaraka School, Kadapra, demonstrated a technique to drape a sari in just five minutes. Live demonstrations also included skin analysis, hair analysis, threading, and hair straightening—courses offered at Skill Development Centres established in higher secondary schools. Kannassa Smaraka School has been allocated a building worth ₹35 lakhs for its SDC, in addition to study equipment valued at ₹15 lakhs.

The fair for the Pathanamthitta sub-district is scheduled for the 24th and 25th of this month, with participation from Chennai IIT.

The valedictory function of the fest was inaugurated by Higher Secondary Regional Director K. Sudha. District Coordinator Dr G. Sunil Kumar presided, while Dr Anitha Baby and P. Chandni also spoke.