Punjab’s Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister, Dr Baljit Kaur, on Thursday announced a new 'Overseas Scholarship Scheme' aimed at helping students from economically weaker families pursue higher education abroad.
Highlighting the government’s achievements over the past three years, Dr. Kaur said the number of children receiving post-matric scholarships had increased by 35 percent. Building on this, she said, the state is now taking a major step to support international education opportunities for students from poor families.
Under the new scheme, students from families with an annual income of less than Rs 8 lakh will be eligible, provided they have scored more than 60 percent in academics and are under 35 years of age. Importantly, 30 percent of the funding will be reserved for girls.
The government has identified 500 universities across the world where students can apply under the scheme. The scholarship will cover visa charges, air tickets, tuition fees, medical insurance, and an annual maintenance allowance of Rs 13.17 lakh. Support will be extended for the entire duration of the course, whether three or four years. However, each family will be allowed to nominate only two children under this benefit.
Calling it a golden opportunity for students from financially weaker sections, Dr. Kaur said the initiative was designed to ensure that no child with merit is deprived of quality global education due to financial constraints. “This scheme is meant for poor families whose children dream of shaping a better future by studying abroad,” she said, adding that a dedicated website will soon be launched where applicants can choose their preferred universities.
Apart from the scholarship initiative, the minister also announced the launch of a PCS preparation course at Ambedkar College in Mohali. A total of 40 students will be selected through an entrance test, and they will undergo two months of specialized training to help them prepare for the Punjab Civil Services examinations.