Latest from SHDF

Dear friends,

We are delighted to share with you the news that for the 2022-23 academic year, 1460 scholarships were awarded, a notable increase from the 1256 awarded in 2021-22. Three quarters of the recipients were women, and two thirds from rural areas. The number of scholarships awarded is in keeping with SHDF’s consistent track record of an upward trajectory yearly. SHDF’s tally of total scholarships since inception in 2000 has grown to 11,025.

Our goal for the academic year 2023-24 is to provide in excess of 1500 scholarships. The application process is in full swing. Advertisements in English and Punjabi have been placed in prominent newspapers like the Punjab Tribune, Ajit and Ajit Samachar. The application forms can be accessed on www.shdf.org and www.nishkam.org. As you may know we now have ten centers helping implement this extraordinary program and volunteers at these centers are also actively informing potential recipients in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi. The application deadline is July 31, 2023. A detailed, thorough assessment is made of each application to ensure that the applicant complies with the twin criteria of financial need, and strong achievement in academic studies. There is also a written test, followed by an interview before an award is made. The awardees will be informed in early 2024.

We are also very happy to share the tremendous progress made by the SHDF Canada team towards establishing the foundation in Canada after having been registered as a tax-exempt non-profit organization. Their website will soon be operational and their brochures will soon be ready for distribution.

At the cost of $550 for one scholarship, we need to raise $825,000 to fund 1500 scholarships. Your contribution is of utmost importance. We have so far this year raised around $200,000 this year. Please visit www.shdf.org to obtain more information and donate generously to keep the dreams of highly deserving students alive.                                                                                                              

With immense gratitude and  warm regards,

The SHDF Team