Published by: PEAK Business Consultancy Services | Website: www.ourtaxpartner.com
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 1. Scholarships and Financial Aid
- 2. Education Loan Subsidy Scheme
- 3. Kerala Overseas Scholarship
- 4. Schemes for Students with Special Needs
- 5. Jeevani Mental Health Program
- Conclusion
Introduction
Kerala’s commitment to education is evident through its array of government schemes designed to support students across various stages of their academic journey. This comprehensive guide outlines the key initiatives available in 2024, aiming to assist students in accessing quality education and related support services.
1. Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Prathibha Scholarship Programme: Offered by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE), this scholarship supports meritorious students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in basic or natural sciences. Learn more.
- Kerala Plus 1 Scholarship: Aimed at students who have achieved high grades in their 10th-grade examinations and have an annual family income less than ₹2 lakhs. Learn more.
- Vidyadhan Plus 1 Scholarship Program: Initiated by the Sarojini Damodaran Foundation, this program provides financial assistance to students entering Class 11, focusing on those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Learn more.
- APJ Abdul Kalam Scholarship (APJAK): Targets minority students pursuing diploma courses in government or aided institutions, offering annual financial support. Learn more.
- Mother Teresa Scholarship (MTS): Provides financial aid to minority students enrolled in nursing or paramedical diploma programs. Learn more.
- Maargadeepam Scheme: A pre-matric scholarship for minority students from Class 1 to 8, covering admission fees, tuition, and maintenance allowances. Learn more.
- District Merit Scholarship: Offers financial assistance to meritorious students pursuing higher secondary education, ITI, or polytechnic courses. Learn more.
2. Education Loan Subsidy Scheme
The Kerala government has introduced an education loan repayment scheme to alleviate the financial burden on students. Key features include:
- Reduction of interest rates on education loans.
- Subsidies covering a significant portion of the repayment amount over four years.
- Applicable to loans up to ₹4 lakhs, with the government covering up to 60% of the principal amount.
- Online application process through the official portal: elrs.kerala.gov.in.
3. Kerala Overseas Scholarship
Managed by the Backward Classes Development Department (BCDD), this scholarship supports OBC students aspiring to pursue postgraduate and doctoral studies abroad. Highlights include:
- Financial support up to ₹10 lakhs, covering tuition and living expenses.
- Eligibility requires a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 60% marks and a family income not exceeding ₹6 lakhs per annum.
- Coverage includes economy class airfare and maintenance allowance.
4. Schemes for Students with Special Needs
The Social Justice Department of Kerala offers various schemes to support students with disabilities:
- Vidyakiranam Scheme: Provides educational assistance to children of disabled parents.
- Vidyajyothi Scheme: Offers financial aid for uniforms and study materials to students with disabilities.
- Niramaya Health Insurance Scheme: Health insurance coverage for differently-abled individuals.
- Scholarship for Transgender Students: Financial support for transgender students pursuing education.
For a comprehensive list of schemes, visit the Social Justice Department’s official portal: sjd.kerala.gov.in.
5. Jeevani Mental Health Program
Initiated by the Directorate of Collegiate Education, the Jeevani Mental Health Program aims to enhance the mental well-being of college students. Key aspects include:
- Availability of trained mental health counselors in colleges.
- Focus on addressing issues like anxiety and depression among students.
- Accessible services before and after college hours.
Conclusion
Kerala’s array of educational schemes in 2024 underscores the state’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment. From scholarships and loan subsidies to specialized programs for overseas studies and mental health, these initiatives aim to empower students across diverse backgrounds. For personalized assistance in navigating these schemes or for more information, feel free to reach out to PEAK Business Consultancy Services.
