Bengaluru, India – 16th August, 2024 – The Akshaya Patra Foundation, a leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to eradicating classroom hunger and malnutrition in India, is proud to announce its latest initiative in educational empowerment—the ‘Scholarship Program’, in association with Dr. Majeed Foundation. This year, the program has pledged an impressive total of Rs. 25 lakhs in scholarships, benefiting over 130 deserving students from government and government-aided schools.

Through this initiative, The Akshaya Patra Foundation aims to extend its mission beyond the successful Mid-Day Meal Scheme, now known as Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM POSHAN). The scholarships will support 75 students graduating from 11th or 12th grade and 55 students completing their Bachelor’s degrees, covering their full academic fees and enabling them to pursue higher education without financial constraints.

The scholarship distribution event was held at MVT Hall, Iskcon Campus, Bangalore & was graced by Dr. Anju Majeed, Group Executive Chairperson of the Sami-Sabinsa Group; Mr. Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation and Sri Gunakara Rama Dasa, Regional President – Karnataka, The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

In her note, Dr. Anju Majeed, Group Executive Chairperson, Sami-Sabinsa Group, said, “The Dr. Majeed Foundation, since its inception, has provided academic and financial support to numerous needy students, eliminating dropouts. We are fortunate to have had the chance to assist The Akshaya Patra Foundation in its efforts by contributing Rs. 29 lakh towards student scholarships and helping the organization in their mid-day meal program. It is gratifying to note that our efforts will improve the students learning outcomes.” “In 2023, the Dr. Majeed Foundation has donated Rs. 50 lakh to The Akshaya Patra Foundation to provide nutritious meals for schoolchildren in the State,” she added.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Shridhar Venkat, CEO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation, expressed, “At The Akshaya Patra Foundation, we believe that education is the cornerstone of personal and societal growth. With this scholarship program, we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent talented young individuals from achieving their academic and professional dreams. Our goal is not just to feed the body but to nourish the mind, empowering a generation to rise above their circumstances and contribute meaningfully to our society.”

The foundation’s commitment to education extends beyond meal provision, aiming to cultivate a holistic educational environment that supports students from the classroom to their careers. This year, the foundation aims to support over 10,000 students, reinforcing its commitment to creating a future-ready workforce.

As we move forward, The Akshaya Patra Foundation remains dedicated to expanding its circles of care, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. With the support of our partners and the community, we continue to make strides towards a healthier, more educated society.