CHENNAI : IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation has commenced registrations for 2026 batch of its popular ‘Out Of The Box Thinking’ (OOBT) course, a unique online learning initiative designed to help learners solve problems creatively through mathematics and logic.
The OOBT course focuses on using mathematics as a tool to develop broader thinking skills rather than rote problem-solving. It introduces learners to indirect and creative approaches to solving challenges, encouraging them to move beyond conventional step-by-step methods. Through engaging modules, puzzles, patterns, logic-based exercises and real-world applications, participants learn how to analyse situations from multiple perspectives and arrive at innovative solutions.
As on date, more than 3,19,536 school and college students, graduates, working professionals and people from across the society have taken this course since its launch on June 2022.
The registrations for the ‘Out Of The Box Thinking’ Course – 2026 batch commenced on 4th May 2026. The last date to register is 31st July 2026. Those interested can register through the following link – https://iitmpravartak.org.in/out-of-box-thinking
Addressing a recent event held in the IIT Madras campus to mark the fourth-year anniversary of OOBT, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, “The aim of this program is to help students think differently and approach problems creatively. The OOBT program is a result of that vision It is encouraging to see the positive impact it is creating among students today. When the mind is refined through the right approach, solving problems becomes not only easier, but also far more meaningful.”
Speaking on the journey of the OOBT programme, Dr. M. J. Shankar Raman, CEO, IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, said, “What started as a simple interaction soon became a transformative journey for us. We were fortunate to be guided by Prof. V. Kamakoti (Director, IIT Madras) whose vision and encouragement laid the foundation for the OOBT programme. His words — ‘Reach out to every child and focus on impact’ — gave us the clarity and confidence to begin this initiative in 2022.”
Dr. M. J. Shankar Raman added, “Today, as we complete four successful years, the programme’s growth, increasing participation, and this year’s highest pass percentage stand as a testament to that vision and the collective efforts of our team. OOBT continues to inspire students to think beyond conventional boundaries and approach problems with creativity and confidence.”
Shri Sadagopan Rajesh, OOBT Course Instructor, delivered an engaging and motivational session, encouraging students to approach mathematics with curiosity and confidence. He also presented an interactive “cake puzzle,” which students solved successfully, showcasing their logical thinking and enthusiasm.
DISTINCTIVE PLATFORM
The OOBT programme has emerged as a distinctive platform for nurturing analytical thinking, curiosity and innovation across age groups. Conducted fully online, the course is structured to make high-quality learning accessible to students from urban and rural India alike, while also welcoming college students, working professionals, teachers and researchers.
A highlight of the programme is its four graded levels, enabling learners at different stages to participate according to their readiness and interests. Topics span number theory, geometry, counting techniques, ratios, statistics, algebra, visual mathematics, calendar mathematics, logical puzzles and advanced problem-solving frameworks. This multi-level structure ensures that the programme remains both inclusive for beginners and challenging for advanced learners.
AWARDS CEREMONY
Since inception, the programme has built a strong reputation for inspiring learners to think independently and confidently.
Reinforcing this impact, IITM Pravartak recently conducted the Certificate Award Ceremony for OOBT 2025 on 15th April 2026 at IIT Madras, where top-performing participants were recognised for their outstanding achievements. The top three rank holders received cash prizes of ₹10,000, ₹5,000 and ₹2,500 respectively, along with certificates. Other successful participants were also felicitated.
