Vidya Poshak marks 25 years of impact: 19,600 lives transformed

Dharwad: What began in 2001 as a modest initiative by three friends determined to ensure that poverty did not prevent talented students from pursuing higher education has today grown into one of Karnataka’s most impactful educational support movements, reaching students across 12 districts of the state.

As Vidya Poshak completes 25 years of service, the organisation has supported nearly 19,600 meritorious students from economically weaker sections with financial assistance amounting to Rs 79 crore. In addition, its digital learning and bridge course programmes have benefited more than 1.4 lakh students.

Addressing reporters in Dharwad on Thursday, Vidya Poshak founder Raghavendra Tikot said that more than half of the beneficiaries are girls. He noted that more than 6,000 former beneficiaries have now established successful careers and lifted their families permanently out of poverty. Over the years, the organisation has expanded significantly, with around 450 volunteers and a donor base exceeding 25,000 individuals.

Tikot said the organisation follows a rigorous selection process to identify deserving students. One of its notable achievements, he said, is that more than 50% of the funds collected annually now come from former beneficiaries who have become financially stable. While some contribute directly, others facilitate corporate social responsibility (CSR) support through their employers. Several prominent institutions, including Infosys Foundation, Sir Ratan Tata Trust, Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, SUPRAJA Foundation, Jindal Trust, The Deshpande Foundation and Microsoft, have partnered with the organisation.

A silver jubilee celebration will be held at Sannidhi Hall on June 13 at 10am. Padma Shri awardee Anke Gowda, educationist Gururaj Karjagi, DIMHANS director Dr Arun Kumar and JSS secretary Ajit Prasad will attend as chief guests.