On 6th February 2024, in New Delhi, Union Minister of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, launched the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme. The event was attended by several dignitaries including Secretary, Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Shri K. Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Shri Sanjay Kumar, Executive Director, EdCIL, Dr. Chandrashekhar, and others.
Minister’s Address
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted the significance of the Vidyanjali Scholarship Program in line with the NEP 2020, emphasizing its role in providing educational opportunities to economically disadvantaged students. He praised the achievements of NVS students and announced scholarships amounting to Rs. 5 crore for 70 students.
Secretary’s Remarks
Shri K. Sanjay Murthy emphasized the importance of channeling philanthropy towards education, commending the efforts of NVS students and sponsors. He expressed hope for increased support from sponsors in the future.
Address by Shri Sanjay Kumar
Shri Sanjay Kumar highlighted the academic success of Navodaya Vidyalaya students and emphasized the role of good pedagogy and opportunities in their achievements. He announced the organization of Summer Camps for students and invited sponsors to extend their support.
Interaction and MoUs
The Minister interacted with NVS students and corporate CSR sponsors. Significant MoUs were exchanged between CSR sponsors/impact founders, including Fiat India, HDFC Bank Limited, ClearMedi Healthcare, Bharat Forge, and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. A short film on the Vidyanjali scholarship scheme was shown during the event.
Launch of Vidyanjali Fintech Platform
The innovative Vidyanjali Fintech Platform/portal was launched during the event to facilitate the scholarship program.
Conclusion
The EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, aiming to revolutionize opportunities for quality education and access to higher education institutions. It ensures access to high-quality learning systems and extends financial support to meritorious Navodaya Vidyalaya students. The involvement of the private sector through CSR initiatives strengthens the government’s efforts towards educational inclusivity and socio-economic upliftment.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Who launched the EdCIL Vidyanjali Scholarship Programme?
- A) Shri Sanjay Kumar
- B) Dr. Chandrashekhar
- C) Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
- D) Shri K. Sanjay Murthy
- Answer: C) Shri Dharmendra Pradhan
- How many students are being awarded scholarships under the program?
- A) 50
- B) 70
- C) 100
- D) 120
- Answer: B) 70
- Which platform/portal was launched during the event?
- A) Vidyanjali Scholarship Platform
- B) NVS Scholarship Portal
- C) Vidyanjali Fintech Platform/portal
- D) NVS Fintech Portal
- Answer: C) Vidyanjali Fintech Platform/portal