New Delhi, May 11, 2026: Kotak Education Foundation (KEF), the implementing agency for CSR initiatives of Kotak Mahindra Bank, has launched the Kotak Junior Scholarship programme to support 1,000 high-performing students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
The initiative is aimed at addressing the financial and academic challenges faced by students during the transition from Class 10 to higher secondary education, a stage where many discontinue their studies due to lack of support.
Under the programme, selected students will receive financial assistance of ₹73,500 over 21 months, covering Classes 11 and 12. In addition to monetary support, the scholarship includes mentorship, academic assistance, career guidance, and exposure opportunities to help students continue their education and prepare for future pathways.
The scholarship is open to students from SSC, CBSE, and ICSE boards who have scored 85% or above in Class 10 examinations, secured admission in Class 11 within the MMR, and belong to families with an annual income below ₹3.2 lakh.
KEF stated that its scholarship initiatives have supported over 7,900 students over the past 19 years, with more than 1,400 scholars graduating successfully. The organisation’s experience indicates that sustained support at key academic milestones improves retention and long-term outcomes for students from low-income families.
“At Kotak Education Foundation, we believe every student should have the chance to dream big and the support to achieve even bigger. Kotak Junior Scholarship is a promise to walk alongside young changemakers on their journey. Beyond financial support, the programme equips students with essential life skills, mentorship, and guidance to help them navigate their journeys with confidence,” said Ms. Arati Kaulgud, Executive Committee Member and Scholarship Program Head at Kotak Education Foundation.
Ridhi Bhatia, Sr Vice President – Group CSR, Kotak Mahindra Bank, added, “We at Kotak firmly believe education is the foundation of strong communities. The Kotak Junior Scholarship supports students at the Class 10–11 transition, a stage where many capable students are forced to pause their education due to financial pressure. By stepping in at this critical moment, we are strengthening continuity in education and nurturing the next generation of professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, which is central to our approach to inclusive growth.”
The Kotak Junior Scholarship is part of KEF’s broader efforts to expand access to education through scholarships, school interventions, and vocational training programmes across multiple states.
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