Illinois Tech & Shiv Nadar Foundation Launch Scholarship for Rural Indian Students

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) has partnered with India’s Shiv Nadar Foundation to establish a scholarship program aimed at empowering meritorious students from rural India. This collaboration seeks to provide exceptional students from underserved regions with access to world-class undergraduate education, fostering the next generation of global leaders.

A Visionary Partnership

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Illinois Tech and the Shiv Nadar Foundation formalizes a commitment to educational equity and excellence. Central to this partnership is VidyaGyan, a transformative initiative by the Shiv Nadar Foundation that identifies and nurtures academically gifted students from rural areas. By offering free, high-quality residential education from middle school through high school, VidyaGyan prepares these students for advanced academic pursuits and leadership roles.

Pioneering Scholars: Raj Dwivedi and Vijay Pratap Singh

Under this new scholarship program, two VidyaGyan alumni, Raj Dwivedi and Vijay Pratap Singh, have commenced their studies at Illinois Tech, marking a historic milestone as the first individuals from their respective districts to pursue higher education in the United States.

• Raj Dwivedi, hailing from Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, is majoring in Computer Science with a keen interest in physics. He aspires to delve into the realm of quantum computing and is actively engaging with faculty to explore collaborative research opportunities in quantum mathematics.
• Vijay Pratap Singh, from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, is pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering with a focus on semiconductor technology. Having authored a research paper on semiconductors in India, he aims to further his expertise in this critical field.

Beyond their academic endeavors, both students are immersing themselves in Chicago’s vibrant cultural landscape, exploring diverse cuisines, visiting museums, and building new friendships within the university community.

Leadership Perspectives

Sundar Mahalingam, President of Strategy at HCL Corporation and the Shiv Nadar Foundation, emphasized the transformative potential of this collaboration: “By bridging opportunity gaps for talented first-generation students, we are fostering pathways to excellence and global exposure. This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to nurturing leaders who will drive meaningful change and create a ripple effect of progress within their communities and beyond.”

Mallik Sundharam, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Illinois Tech, expressed enthusiasm for the enriched campus environment: “By welcoming these exceptionally talented individuals to our campus, we are enriching our community with unique perspectives of global first-generation students while advancing our mission of expanding access to quality education for all.”

A Testament to Resilience and Aspiration

Reflecting on his journey, Raj Dwivedi shared, “Receiving this scholarship is one of the most significant moments in my life. Illinois Tech has such a vibrant community and knowledgeable professors—every time I talk to a new professor, I walk away with a fresh idea. Knowing that the institution sees my potential motivates me to work harder and focus on achieving my future goals.”

Vijay Pratap Singh echoed this sentiment, highlighting the profound impact of the opportunity: “This scholarship has opened doors I never imagined possible. The exposure to cutting-edge technology and the diverse perspectives at Illinois Tech are invaluable. I am committed to leveraging this experience to contribute meaningfully to my community back home.”

Looking Ahead

This partnership between Illinois Tech and the Shiv Nadar Foundation exemplifies a shared dedication to educational empowerment and social equity. By providing a platform for talented students from rural India to excel on a global stage, the initiative not only transforms individual lives but also sets the stage for broader societal impact. As Raj and Vijay embark on their academic journeys, they pave the way for future cohorts of VidyaGyan scholars to follow in their footsteps, embodying the transformative power of education.