Mumbai, December 17, 2025: Kotak Education Foundation (KEF), the CSR implementing arm of the Kotak Mahindra Group, organised its annual scholarship felicitation ceremony, RIZE 2025, recognising more than 1,400 new scholars from economically disadvantaged sections of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The scholarships aim to support students in pursuing higher education across a range of academic disciplines.
The event highlighted KEF’s continued focus on enabling access to education and supporting the holistic development of students from underserved communities. Scholars were awarded certificates marking the beginning of their higher education journey, alongside recognition of academic achievers.
The ceremony was attended by Rinku Hooda, Indian para-athlete and 2025 World Champion in javelin, who interacted with the scholars and shared words of encouragement. The event also featured an address by alumnus and Chief Guest Vishal Nevge, Assistant Commissioner of State Tax, GST Department, Government of Maharashtra, who reflected on the impact of the Kotak Junior Scholarship Programme and encouraged the new scholars to pursue their goals with confidence.
Devang Gheewalla, Group Chief Financial Officer, Kotak Mahindra Bank, addressed the gathering and spoke about the growth of the scholarship programme over the years and its role in supporting students’ educational aspirations. Paul Parambi, Trustee, Kotak Education Foundation, urged scholars to remain focused and resilient as they progress in their academic and professional journeys.
Arati Kaulgud, Director of Scholarship Program, Kotak Education Foundation, said, “These 1,400+ Kotak Scholars are a testament to how education can shape futures. With these scholarships, we’re not just supporting their academic journey, we’re opening a world of opportunity, growth, and mentorship that will help them rise to their highest potential.”
The event also showcased performances by scholars, reflecting their talents beyond academics. Members of KEF’s leadership team present at the ceremony included Ganesh Raja, CEO, Kotak Education Foundation; Jayasree Ramesh, COO, Education, KEF; and Kavita Shanghvi, Director, Education, KEF.
RIZE 2025 marked another milestone in Kotak Education Foundation’s efforts to support meritorious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and strengthen access to higher education through sustained scholarship programmes.
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