RDRS Scholarship Program And Its Impact On Expanding Higher Education Access In Bangladesh

Rdrs Scholarship Introduction

Education is the key to unlocking one’s potential and creating opportunities for a better future. However, for many students from disadvantaged backgrounds, the cost of higher education can be prohibitive. This is where scholarship programs like the RDRS Scholarship come in – to provide financial assistance and open the doors to tertiary education for deserving and promising students.

Overview of the RDRS Scholarship Program

The RDRS Scholarship was established in 2021 on the advice of the Microfinance Regulatory Authority (MRA) in Bangladesh. The aim is to support talented but economically challenged students to pursue higher education at the university level. This aligns with the MRA’s vision to promote inclusive growth and social development in Bangladesh.

The scholarship covers the tuition fees, accommodation, books and other educational expenses of recipients during their undergraduate studies. As of 2023, the RDRS Scholarship has supported over 500 students across various universities in Bangladesh. The program plans to expand its reach to help 2000 students annually by 2025.

How To Apply Rdrs Scholarship

Step 1: Check if you meet the eligibility criteria. You need to be a meritorious student from a poor/very poor family in RDRS working area. The minimum GPA requirements are 4 out of 5 for male students and 3.5 out of 5 for female students in both SSC and HSC exams.

Step 2: Download the application form (Annexure-01) from the RDRS website or collect it from the nearest RDRS District/Upazila/Branch office.

Step 3: Fill out the application form completely providing all required information – personal details, academic records, family income status, etc.

Step 4: Attach one recent passport-size photograph attested by designated authority (school headmaster/ college principal/ local chairman).

Step 5: Attach photocopies of your national ID card, all academic certificates & marksheets from SSC onwards.

Step 6: Write an essay of around 500 words on your financial condition, academic goals and how the scholarship will help you (in Bengali).

Step 7: Put the filled out application form along with all documents in an envelope. Write your name, address, and “Application for RDRS Scholarship 2023” on top.

Step 8: Submit the application in person or via post to the RDRS head office address before the deadline of November 30, 2023. Keep proof of submission.

Step 9: Wait for the selection process and interview calls if shortlisted. Check website for results and further updates.

Step 10: If selected, provide bank details to receive scholarship installments. Attend award ceremony if invited.

FAQs

Q1: Who is eligible to apply?

A: Students from poor/very poor families in RDRS working areas who have good academic records – minimum GPA of 4 for males and 3.5 for females in SSC and HSC exams.

Q2: What documents do I need to submit?

A: Filled application form, passport photo, ID card copy, marksheets from SSC onwards, family income proof, and a 500 word essay in Bengali.

Q3: Is there an application fee?

A: No, there is no fee to apply for the RDRS scholarship.

Q4: How do I submit the application?

A: By hand or via post to RDRS head office before November 30. Keep proof of submission.

Conclusion

RDRS Scholarship program is a valuable initiative that is expanding higher education access and opportunities for financially constrained students in Bangladesh. Since starting in 2021, it has already supported over 500 students to complete their undergraduate studies across various universities. The application process is thorough but fair, and selections are made based on merit, need, and diversity of recipients.

The scholarship covers all academic expenses for the full duration of the degree programs. This enables even students from very poor backgrounds to enroll in top universities and earn their degrees just like their more privileged peers. The high graduation and employment rates of RDRS scholars demonstrate the difference this dedicated funding makes in their lives.

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