Shikhar Science Scholarship Program

Shikhar Science Scholarship Program

Launched in 2018 by United Way of Baroda in partnership with the C.S. Chawla Foundation, the Shikhar Science Scholarship Program was established to address the high dropout rate in higher secondary education, particularly in the science stream, by supporting academically meritorious yet financially underprivileged students in Grades 11 and 12. Beginning with just 23 students, the programme has grown to support over 400 students across Vadodara, reflecting its expanding impact in promoting academic excellence and enabling deserving students to pursue careers in science. Scholarships are awarded through a rigorous selection process based on both academic merit and financial need, ensuring that assistance reaches students with exceptional potential who face economic challenges. Beyond financial support, the programme offers a holistic ecosystem of mentoring, academic guidance, scholarship disbursement events, exam preparation sessions, and the distribution of academic and exam wishing kits, equipping students with effective study techniques, time management skills, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to excel in their board examinations. Through sustained mentorship and comprehensive support, the Shikhar Science Scholarship Program has become a symbol of opportunity and empowerment, demonstrating how meaningful collaboration and continued investment in education can transform the lives of aspiring young scientists and help them achieve their academic and professional aspirations.

Shikhar Science Scholarship Program

Empowering Scientific Aspirations

Launched in 2018 by United Way of Baroda in partnership with the C.S. Chawla Foundation, the Shikhar Science Scholarship Program aims to address the pressing issue of student dropouts in higher secondary education—particularly in the science stream. This initiative is designed to support and uplift academically meritorious yet financially underprivileged students in grades 11 and 12, enabling them to pursue their aspirations in the field of science.

STUDENT IMPACT REPORT (2018–2024)

The program is committed to fostering academic excellence and holistic development. Scholarships are awarded based on both merit and financial need, with a rigorous selection process identifying students who exhibit strong potential and determination. Beyond financial aid, the program also provides structured academic support to help students navigate challenges and build confidence.

Activities such as exam preparation sessions and the distribution of academic kits help reinforce key skills including time management, problem-solving techniques, and revision strategies. These interventions are instrumental in ensuring that students are well-prepared and motivated throughout their academic journey.

The Shikhar Science Scholarship Program exemplifies how focused collaboration and sustained mentorship can transform educational outcomes. It stands as a symbol of hope and opportunity for aspiring young minds passionate about making a mark in the world of science.

Activities That Support Success

Scholarship Disbursement Events: Celebrating the achievements of students and their dedication to science.

Mentoring Sessions: Guidance from experts to inspire and support students’ educational journeys.

Exam Wishing Kit Distribution: Providing essential supplies to encourage and prepare students for examinations.

Exam Preparation Sessions: Equipping students with strategies and skills to excel academically.

The Shikhar Science Scholarship Program demonstrates the power of collaboration and focused efforts in shaping the future of education, providing students with the resources and encouragement they need to achieve their dreams.

From Struggles to Strength

Pranay Bharatbhai Machhi

Pranay Bharatbhai Machhi, a meritorious student from Baroda High School, Danteshwar, transformed financial adversity into academic excellence through unwavering determination and perseverance. Excelling at every stage of his educational journey, he secured 93% in Class 10, 95% in Class 12, and an impressive 114 out of 120 in GUJCET, earning admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Goa to pursue Computer Science Engineering. Supported through the Shikhar Science Scholarship Program, Pranay’s remarkable journey exemplifies how timely educational assistance, combined with hard work and resilience, can empower talented students to overcome challenges and realise their aspirations.

Qureshi Mohammed Tabrez

Qureshi Mohammed Tabrez’s inspiring journey reflects the power of perseverance, academic excellence, and unwavering family support. Despite financial constraints, he consistently excelled in his studies, achieving 94% in Class 10, 98% in Class 12, and an outstanding 116 out of 120 in GUJCET. His exceptional performance secured him admission to Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology (DA-IICT), where he is pursuing Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence. Through the support of the Shikhar Science Scholarship Program, Tabrez was able to continue his educational journey with confidence, demonstrating that determination, coupled with the right opportunities, can pave the way for a successful future in the field of technology.

Shikhar Scholarship Program

Students belonging to weak financial families has to sacrifice their dreams of taking a step towards pursuing their Higher Secondary Education in the stream of science taking into consideration about the educational costs. In the year 2018, United Way of Baroda joined hands with C.S. Chawla Foundation to support such industrious students through providing them Scholarship along with Mentorship guidance to lead them with design their career path.

Impact

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students had been supported for their higher education

Shikhar Science Scholarship Program