Empowerment through Education -The goal of SDEF is to assist extraordinarily gifted but financially struggling students who are unable to complete their college studies owing to their financial barriers. The organization offers scholarships to students who have overcome the challenges of their family's situation to achieve high rankings in the national and state-level common entrance exams, to gain admission to prestigious institutions.

Education lays a strong foundation for a student’s professional career. It is a crucial phase when a student transitions from school life to professional college life. Perusing higher studies is a vital but expensive investment. Parents desire to give the best education to their children but many cannot afford it, due to financial constraints.

We come from a developing country where millions of students still remain deprived of a basic college education. From them, many could be future scholars in their respective domains, but their potential is left unrecognized without the requisite qualifications. Also, the cost of a good education is rising at a rapid pace for the last thirty years and has become out of reach, especially for middle-income groups.

Why is a scholarship critical to a student?

Scholarships may be very beneficial to students, particularly when they are looking for means to fulfill their career aspirations. Besides supporting their college expenses, scholarships are excellent testimonials in their educational portfolio that leave a good impression on their future employers. 

Helps a student to Access Quality Education

Being financially disadvantaged, students are often not able to get admission to a college of their choice, regardless of their intellectual abilities. They end up having a mediocre education and eventually miss career opportunities. However, a scholarship is a contribution to their college fee which helps students get the best quality education without facing any financial burden.  

Helps to Reduce Financial Debts

Affording a college education has become difficult over the years, owing to the rising cost of education. Hence, many students and parents apply for financial aid, loans, etc. which have to be repaid later at heavy interest rates. Contrary to this, the scholarship money does not need to be repaid, hence it reduces the financial debt of students and parents to a substantial extent. 

Helps a student to Choose a Desirable Career

Graduating with merit from a good college looks excellent on a resume. A scholarship enhances your chance to get a well-paid job in a good company. Also, it is proof of your academic brilliance. 

Helps to Instil a Sense of Self-Pride and Prestige

Winning a scholarship is a matter of pride for every student, as it is a challenge to stand out from all other applicants, and to be among the privileged few. It motivates the students to perform better and promotes healthy competition.