Kotak Education Foundation’s RIZE 2025 felicitates 1,400+ scholars, empowering higher education across Mumbai region.
Arati Kaulgud, Director – Scholarship, KEF, Ganesh Raja, CEO, KEF, Paul Parambi, Trustee, KEF, Devang Gheewalla, Group, Chief Financial Officer, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Jayasree Ramesh, COO - Education, KEF
Kotak Education Foundation (KEF), the CSR implementing arm of Kotak Mahindra Group, celebrated its annual scholarship felicitation ceremony, RIZE 2025, with pride and joy, recognizing 1,400+ new scholars and supporting their higher education from economically disadvantaged sections across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The event underscored KEF’s commitment to fostering educational excellence and holistic development for its beneficiaries.
The ceremony was graced by Rinku Hooda, a celebrated Indian para-athlete and 2025 World Champion in javelin. With multiple global podium finishes, including silvers at the World Para Athletics Championships 2023 (Paris) and 2024 (Japan), along with notable medals at the Asian Para Games, he stands as one of India’s most accomplished and inspiring sporting talents. His presence deeply motivated the scholars, as he personally engaged with them, offering heartfelt words of encouragement and inspiration.
The event featured several memorable moments, including a soul-stirring address by alumnus and Chief Guest, Mr. Vishal Nevge, Assistant Commissioner of State Tax, GST Department, Government of Maharashtra. He expressed deep gratitude for the Kotak Junior Scholarship Programme and shared inspiring words of encouragement with the scholars.
Additionally, Devang Gheewalla, Group Chief Financial Officer, Kotak Mahindra Bank, motivated the scholars, highlighting the significance of the scholarship program and its remarkable growth over the past few years.
Paul Parambi, Trustee, Kotak Education Foundation, delivered an inspiring address, urging the new batch of scholars to pursue their goals with determination and resilience.
Arati Kaulgud, Director of Scholarship Program, Kotak Education Foundation, said,
"These 1,400+ Kotak Scholars are a testament to how education can shape futures. With these scholarships, we’re not just supporting their academic journey, we’re opening a world of opportunity, growth, and mentorship that will help them rise to their highest potential."
The ceremony witnessed stellar performances by the scholars, showcasing their talents beyond academics. Each scholar was awarded their scholarship certificate, along with felicitating the achievers, marking the beginning of their journey in higher education across diverse fields. The atmosphere was filled with pride and accomplishment as the scholars received their certificates amidst enthusiastic applause.
The ceremony was also attended by prominent members of Kotak Education Foundation’s management, including Mr. Ganesh Raja, CEO at KEF; Ms. Jayasree Ramesh, COO, Education at KEF; and Ms. Kavita Shanghvi, Director, Education at KEF.
RIZE 2025 was a celebration of talent, perseverance, and promise, a testament to Kotak Education Foundation's unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation through education and ensuring they achieve their full potential.
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