New Delhi: Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, inaugurated the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme on February 6th, 2024, in New Delhi. Key figures including K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary of Higher Education, Ministry of Education; Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of Department of School Education and Literacy; Dr. Chandrashekhar, Executive Director of EdCIL; along with other dignitaries, graced the event with their presence.
Dharmendra Pradhan, in his speech, emphasized that the Vidyanjali Scholarship Program, as envisioned in the NEP 2020, exemplifies a comprehensive approach to empowering economically disadvantaged students through enhanced access and educational opportunities. He applauded the achievements of NVS students, noting that nearly 14,000 of them have gained admissions to prestigious institutes like IITs and NITs without resorting to coaching centers. Many of these students hail from marginalized families. Pradhan announced scholarships totaling Rs. 5 crore for 70 deserving students.
He stressed that nation-building is a collective responsibility and expressed gratitude for corporate support in sponsoring academically talented students lacking financial means. Pradhan anticipated that the philanthropic efforts of donor organizations would inspire more corporates to empower needy students and promote educational pursuits.
Sanjay Murthy elaborated on how the initiative, in alignment with NEP 2020, redirects philanthropy towards the education sector. He praised the accomplishments of JNV students and acknowledged the role of sponsors in fulfilling their aspirations. Murthy hoped for more sponsors to step forward and support students in their educational endeavors.
Sanjay Kumar, in his address, emphasized the consistent academic performance of Navodaya Vidyalaya students in board exams. He highlighted that 85% of these students come from economically weaker rural families. Kumar praised the leadership of the Union Education Minister and underscored that academic achievements are independent of one’s background, emphasizing the role of good pedagogy and opportunities. He announced the organization of Summer Camps to inspire students in skilling activities, following the Minister’s suggestions, and invited sponsors to extend their support.
During the event, the Minister interacted with six JNV students and five corporate CSR sponsors. A short film on the Vidyanjali scholarship scheme was showcased, and significant MoUs were exchanged between CSR sponsors/impact founders, including Fiat India, HDFC Bank Limited, ClearMedi Healthcare, Bharat Forge, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The Vidyanjali Fintech Platform/portal was launched, and the Minister presented scholarship letters to six meritorious NVS students.
The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme, aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, aims to revolutionize opportunities for quality education and access to higher education institutions. Going beyond mere enrollment, this initiative ensures access to high-quality learning systems, facilitating a seamless transition from secondary to higher education and providing financial support to meritorious Navodaya Vidyalaya students in need. In addition to supporting economically marginalized and meritorious NVS students, the Government encourages private sector involvement through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, fostering collaboration between the Government and corporates for a more educated India, where no child is left behind. The event is expected to strengthen the Government’s efforts in fostering educational inclusivity and socio-economic upliftment in the country.