Goal:

To provide financial support through merit cum means-based scholarships for young women pursuing science and technology degrees at IIT Bombay with special attention to low-income students, during the academic year 2023-24.

Objectives

• Increased Representation: This financial support will help overcome barriers that may have limited the representation of women in STEM fields. With more women entering these fields, it will contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workforce, bringing different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving.
• Career Advancement: Access to education and resources will empower these female students to pursue advanced degrees and research opportunities in STEM. This, in turn, will lead to increased career opportunities, promotions, and leadership positions in STEM-related industries.
• Economic Empowerment: Providing such financial support to these female students, has a direct impact on their economic empowerment. This can contribute to closing the gender pay gap and improving overall financial stability for women.
• Role Modelling: Female STEM graduates can serve as role models for future generations. Seeing successful women in STEM can inspire younger girls to pursue similar career paths, creating a positive feedback loop that encourages more women to enter and stay in STEM fields.
• Addressing Gender Stereotypes: Providing  financial support helps challenge and break down gender stereotypes associated with STEM fields. By supporting female students, we aim to send a message to society that these fields are for everyone, irrespective of gender.

Impact

While the government has increased women’s participation in STEM at IIT Bombay through supernumerary seats, there remains a crucial need to support those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Out of ~270 women who apply for named scholarships, only about ~50 receive them. Thanks to generous support from Oracle, we have been able to provide scholarships to all eligible girls from weaker sections.

The funding through this project has directly impacted 153 female students currently studying at IIT Bombay. It has indirectly impacted female students who wish to pursue higher education. They will be encouraged to apply to institutions of repute such as IIT Bombay, as these scholarships will take care of their financial constraints.

It is the first-ever initiative by any corporate that has helped IIT Bombay in supporting scholarships for undergraduate female students at such a big scale and building the next cadre of women leaders in STEM.