Oracle’s Pioneering Partnership with IIT Bombay for Women in STEM

During the financial year 2023-24, Oracle, through its groundbreaking partnership with IIT Bombay, set a new benchmark for corporate social responsibility in advancing women’s education, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Oracle became the first corporate entity to fund scholarships exclusively for undergraduate women at IIT Bombay, reaffirming its long-term commitment to gender inclusion and education equity. This transformative collaboration marked a watershed moment, turning corporate philanthropy into a strategic investment in the future of education, innovation, and leadership.

While government initiatives such as supernumerary seats had increased women’s participation at IIT Bombay, financial need remained a major barrier. Out of approximately 270 women applicants, only around 50 received named scholarships. But thanks to Oracle’s generous and substantial contribution to IIT Bombay’s Merit & Means Scholarship, during FY 23-24, they directly empowered 153 female students from economically weaker sections, ensuring that no deserving student was left behind. This initiative not only eased financial pressures but also unlocked pathways for them to pursue degrees in STEM disciplines with confidence and focus.

But Oracle’s impact through this initiative extended far beyond the classroom:

·        Increased Representation: By helping women overcome financial barriers, the scholarship strengthened female representation in STEM, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive workforce.

·        Career Advancement: Access to quality education equipped women with the foundation to pursue advanced studies, research opportunities, and leadership roles across STEM-related industries.

·        Economic Empowerment: Financial support for women students directly contributed to narrowing the gender pay gap and fostering long-term economic independence.

·        Pioneering Influence: Successful graduates from this programme went on to become powerful role models, inspiring younger generations of girls to pursue STEM careers and dismantle systemic barriers.

·        Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Supporting female students sent a powerful message that STEM belongs to everyone—irrespective of gender.

The significance of the initiative was widely recognised, and Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri, former Director of IIT Bombay, noted that Oracle’s commitment aligned closely with the Institute’s mission to strengthen industry–academic partnerships for societal good. The collaboration went far beyond scholarships; it broke barriers, challenged stereotypes, and created an environment that encouraged women to step into leadership roles in science and technology. Together, through this milestone initiative, Oracle and IIT Bombay set the stage for the next generation of women leaders in STEM with the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities to shape the future.