The SBI Foundation has announced the launch of the 3rd edition of its Asha Scholarship Program, designed to provide much-needed financial support to 10,000 students from underprivileged backgrounds across India. This initiative aims to ensure that deserving students can continue their education without financial constraints, contributing to a more inclusive and accessible educational landscape.
What is the Asha Scholarship Program?
Launched in 2022, the Asha Scholarship Program provides scholarships to students ranging from Class 6 to postgraduate levels. The scholarship amounts vary from ₹15,000 to ₹20,00,000 per year, depending on the student’s academic needs and educational level. By addressing the financial challenges faced by students, the program helps ensure uninterrupted access to quality education.
Who Can Apply for the Asha Scholarship?
The Asha Scholarship Program offers opportunities across different educational categories:
- School Students: Scholarships for students from Class 6 and above.
- Undergraduate Students: Support for those pursuing their bachelor’s degree.
- Postgraduate Students: Financial assistance for students at the master’s level.
- Students at IITs and IIMs: Special provisions for those enrolled in premier institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
In addition, the program has a ‘Study Abroad’ scheme exclusively for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students who aspire to pursue higher education overseas. This effort aims to broaden access to international academic opportunities for marginalized communities.
How to Apply?
Applications for the 2024 edition opened on August 16, 2024, and will close on October 1, 2024. Interested students can learn more about eligibility criteria and submit their applications through the official website: www.sbifashascholarship.org.
Impact of the Asha Scholarship Program
Since its inception, the Asha Scholarship Program has significantly impacted the lives of thousands of students. As of now, the program has distributed ₹3.91 crore in financial aid, benefiting 3,198 students across India. By easing the financial burden of education, it has opened doors for countless students to pursue their academic dreams.
A Vision for the Future
Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, Chairman of SBI, emphasized that the Asha Scholarship Program aligns with the bank’s broader vision of offering services that extend beyond banking. He highlighted how the Asha Scholars would play a vital role in contributing to India’s long-term goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, under the mission of “Viksit Bharat.”
The SBI Foundation’s continued efforts to empower students through scholarships underscore its commitment to social responsibility and the transformative power of education. With the Asha Scholarship Program, the foundation aims to create a brighter future for underprivileged students and, in turn, contribute to the nation’s progress.