New Delhi, Sept 9, 2024: Amazon has announced the opening of applications for the Pratidhi Scholarship 2024 to support the education of nearly 1,200 children of the company’s driver associates, by providing financial assistance of Rs 6,000 to help cover their tuition fees, school supplies and other educational expenses. Additionally, the students with disabilities will be offered a scholarship of Rs 10,000 which can be used for therapeutic expenses and other requirements to join school and purchase books and stationery.
Students of class 3 to 12 from weaker socio-economic background are eligible for this scholarship. Applications for the Pratidhi Scholarship Program will close on September 15. The selected scholars will be announced by September 20.
To identify the most promising candidates, Amazon has partnered with the Buddy4Study India Foundation to conduct a rigorous evaluation process. Scholarships will be awarded based on a combination of academic merit, financial need, and demonstrated leadership potential. To ensure equal access to education, Amazon will disburse a sum of over Rs 70 lacs, to facilitate their studies.
Karuna Shanker Pande, Vice President – India Logistics, Amazon, said, "We are thrilled to announce the Pratidhi Scholarship Program 2024, which aims to empower the children of drivers by providing them with essential financial support for their education. At Amazon India, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their background. This scholarship not only helps cover educational expenses but also encourages holistic development through mentorship initiatives. We are committed to making a positive impact in our communities and look forward to supporting these bright young minds as they pursue their educational dreams."
Since its inception in 2022, the Pratidhi Scholarship has supported over 650 students in 2022, over 1000 students in 2023, and around 30 children with disabilities in 2024. The program not only provides financial support but also includes mentorship opportunities, with 20% of recipients benefiting from a mentorship initiative to further enhance their educational journey.
Buddy4study India Foundation will process successfully submitted applications, which include verification of the documents and bank details submitted. A final list will then be shared with Amazon to verify details of the applicants. Upon verification the amount is disbursed to the bank account of children of eligible delivery associates.
In addition to the Pratidhi Scholarship Program, Amazon also offered 500 scholarships to girl students as part of the Amazon Future Engineer program. These scholars were shortlisted based on their socio-economic needs and merit. This initiative is dedicated to empowering young women in India to pursue careers in technology. The program aims to bridge the gender gap in the tech industry by providing comprehensive support to 500 female students pursuing undergraduate degrees in computer science engineering or related fields.
