For Sunita, the daughter of a brick kiln worker, the dream of studying beyond 8th grade seemed impossible. Her family's ₹6,000 monthly income barely covered food and rent, leaving nothing for school fees, books, or uniforms. When OJASH WELFARE Society's scholarship reached her, it changed everything. Today, Sunita is in 11th grade, topping her class in science, and dreams of becoming a nurse to serve her community. Her story is one of 85 such transformations through our "Vidya Jyoti" scholarship program, which supports meritorious students from the poorest families.
Our scholarship covers not just tuition fees but all hidden costs that force poor children out of school—uniforms, books, stationery, exam fees, and transport. We provide ₹12,000 to ₹25,000 per student annually depending on their grade level and needs. But money is only part of the support. Each scholar is paired with a mentor who provides guidance, monitors progress, and helps navigate challenges. Regular counseling sessions address the psychological barriers that first-generation learners face in competitive academic environments.
The selection process for our scholarships is rigorous yet compassionate. We look for students who show dedication despite difficult circumstances—children who walk 5 kilometers to school, who study under streetlights because their homes have no electricity, who help with family work yet maintain good grades. Economic need is verified through home visits, and academic potential is assessed through interviews and school records. We prioritize girls and children from marginalized communities who face additional barriers to education.
The impact of our scholarship program extends far beyond individual students. When one child from a village goes to college, it inspires dozens of others. Parents who once saw education as a waste of time now encourage their children to study harder. Our scholars return during vacations to teach younger children, creating a beautiful cycle of giving back. Last year, three of our early scholars cleared competitive exams—two are now studying nursing, and one is training to become a teacher. Every scholarship we give plants a seed that will bear fruit for generations.
