Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) unveiled the Kotak Shiksha Nidhi Impact Film, a powerful tribute to the resilience, courage, and transformation of students whose education was safeguarded in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic through one of Kotak Mahindra Group’s timely and extensive initiatives- Kotak Shiksha Nidhi.
Launched pan-India in response to the unprecedented crisis caused by COVID-19, Kotak Shiksha Nidhi was conceived to ensure the continuity of education for students who had lost one or both parents, or a primary earning family member, to the pandemic. The initiative supported over 1,500 students from Class 1 to graduation and diploma courses, spanning the ages of 6 to 22 years, at a time of profound personal loss and financial vulnerability, with financial aid of up to ₹ 2.5 lakhs per annum.
More than a financial aid programme, Kotak Shiksha Nidhi was thoughtfully designed as a holistic support system, extending academic assistance, career guidance, analytical skills training, mental health and wellness counselling, and coaching in personality development and life skills. This integrated approach enabled students not just to remain in the education system, but to rebuild confidence, rediscover purpose, and envision a future beyond adversity.
Many beneficiaries of the programme have since gone on to successfully graduate, pursue higher education, secure internships, and gain full-time employment, bringing renewed stability and hope to their families and communities. The impact film is a testament to the programme’s enduring legacy and the lives it has shaped. Commenting on the launch of the film, Jaideep Hansraj, Whole Time Director (Executive Director) Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “The Kotak Shiksha Nidhi Impact Film is a salute to courage. Behind every frame is a young learner who refused to let loss define their future. Through timely financial support and holistic care including academic guidance, mental wellness, and life skills, we worked with the families as they rebuilt hope. This film reminds us why equitable access to education matters: because when support arrives at the right time, potential becomes possibility.”
Commenting on the launch of the film, Jayasree Ramesh, COO(Education), Kotak Education Foundation, said, “At Kotak Education Foundation, we know that every child’s learning is precious and no crisis should stand in its way. Kotak Shiksha Nidhi was created with care and foresight, to protect the dreams of children facing unimaginable loss. This video shares their stories of resilience and courage, highlighting a Pan-India movement that ensures every child can continue to learn, grow, and thrive.”
