De Scholars

De Scholars is a flagship educational support initiative of Vincentian Social Services, launched during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program emerged in response to the severe educational disruptions and family hardships experienced by thousands of children and young people across India during the crisis.

Recognizing that many vulnerable children were at risk of discontinuing their education due to financial constraints, loss of parental support, or social marginalization, De Scholars was established to ensure that no child is deprived of education because of circumstances beyond their control.

Today, the project continues to support deserving students from disadvantaged backgrounds, enabling them to pursue their educational aspirations with dignity, confidence, and hope.

Who We Support

De Scholars prioritizes children and young people who face significant social, economic, or personal challenges, including:

• Children who lost one or both parents during the COVID-19 pandemic

• Students from economically disadvantaged families

• Children from single-parent or fragmented families

• Children belonging to marginalized and vulnerable communities

• Children and adolescents affected by HIV/AIDS

• Students at risk of dropping out of school or higher education due to financial hardship

Our Objectives

The project seeks to:

• Ensure continuity of education for vulnerable children and youth

• Prevent school and college dropouts caused by financial difficulties

• Reduce the economic burden on families through educational assistance

• Promote the holistic development of children, addressing academic, emotional, and social needs

• Provide mentorship and guidance that foster personal growth, resilience, and life skills

Areas of Operation

De Scholars reaches students in both rural and urban communities across multiple states in India, with significant engagement in:

• Kerala

• Tamil Nadu

• Karnataka

• Tripura

• West Bengal

The program continues to expand its reach through partnerships, volunteers, educational institutions, and well-wishers who share the vision of educational equity.

Support Provided

The assistance offered through De Scholars is tailored to the individual needs of each student and may include:

Educational Assistance

• School and college tuition fees

• Examination fees

• Uniforms and educational supplies

• Textbooks, notebooks, and learning materials

Academic Support

• Guidance for educational planning and career progression

• Academic mentoring and learning support

• Monitoring of educational performance and attendance

Psychosocial Support

• Emotional support through trained volunteers and mentors

• Referrals for counselling and specialized services when required

• Family engagement to strengthen the student's support system

Creating Opportunities, One Student at a Time

Education has the power to break the cycle of poverty and create pathways to a brighter future. Through De Scholars, Vincentian Social Services remains committed to ensuring that vulnerable children and young people receive the support, encouragement, and opportunities they need to realize their full potential.