Mukti’s Talented Student Sponsorship (TSS) Programme Celebrates 19th Annual Event

Mukti’s flagship initiative, the Talented Student Sponsorship (TSS) project, marked its 19th annual celebration on 22nd December 2024, recognizing its relentless commitment to empowering meritorious yet financially challenged students across West Bengal. Since its inception in 2006, the TSS program has been dedicated to offering financial assistance and mentorship to students from diverse fields, including medical, engineering, nursing, and general studies.

Originally launched with just 10 students, the TSS project has expanded significantly over the years. Backed by both national and international donors, the initiative has supported more than 1,700 students to date, with over 360 students receiving help this year alone. The program aims to alleviate the financial burdens of education, enabling students to pursue their academic and professional aspirations without compromise.

The event, held at the Vivekananda Hall of the The Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture, Golpark, Kolkata, saw the recognition of 105 current students who received certificates. A highlight of the program included speeches by esteemed speakers and dignitaries. The event featured speeches of Mr. Sankar Halder, President of Mukti; Swami Suparnananda Maharaj, Secretary of The Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture; Mr. Satyajit Roy, Secretary of Mukti; Mr. Asim Das, Treasurer of Mukti-Australia; Mr. Biswanath Mandal, Vice-President of Mukti; Mr. Madhusudan Bairagi, Board Member of Mukti; Mr. Padmanava Sen, Head of the RF Design Enablement Group at the Barkhausen Institut in Dresden, Germany; Mr. Chandan Maiti, Headmaster of Krishnachandrapur High School; and Mr. Prabir Mitra, Eminent Sports Organizer. They were joined by several guests and delegates representing donor agencies and TSS sponsors, all of whom play a crucial role in making the TSS programme a success.

Speaking on the occasion, respected Chief Guest and Secretary of The Ramakrishna Mission Institute of Culture, Swami Suparnananda Maharaj urged the students to take a pledge: “You are taking help today because you have need. You must repay this help when you become successful.” He emphasized the importance of giving back to the community once they have the means to do so, creating a cycle of support for future generations.

The Secretary of Mukti, Mr. Satyajit Ray, expressed that while he had heard many people aspire to become doctors, simply becoming a doctor was not the true accomplishment; what truly mattered was how one fulfilled the responsibilities that came with the role. In other words, he highlighted that responsibility was more important than the title.

Mr. Padmanava Sen, who delivered a speech on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), captivated the audience with his insights into the field and its growing relevance in today’s technological landscape. His address emphasized the importance of AI in shaping the future and encouraged students to embrace this cutting-edge field to unlock new opportunities in their careers.

Other dignitaries also offered valuable advice. Mr. Subodh Biswas emphasized the importance of making education accessible to everyone. Mr. Sujit Paul encouraged the students to maintain confidence, avoid hesitation, adapt to change, and keep their hunger for learning alive. Mrs. Monalisa Maity reminded that every successful individual must remember their roots.

In addition to these speeches, sponsors shared their thoughts and ideas with the students, encouraging them to focus on more than just their own success. They advised the students to spread thoughts and actions of helping others in society, and warned them not to get distracted by social media, which can detract from their goals. The sponsors also urged students to be brave and take on challenges, stating that the threshold level of endurance increases by slowly adapting to adverse conditions.

One of the most touching moments of the event was the inspiring presentation by Saikat Naskar, a TSS-supported student, who demonstrated his yoga skills. The celebration also included vibrant cultural performances, showcasing the exceptional talents of the beneficiaries.

A key feature of the TSS project’s success lies in its cycle of empowerment. Many former beneficiaries, now established professionals in their respective fields, have returned to sponsor the next generation of students, ensuring a sustainable and self-reinforcing model of giving back. This practice strengthens the sense of community and commitment among TSS alumni, creating an enduring legacy of support.

The event concluded with a thought provoking speech by Mr. Sankar Halder, the President of Mukti. He said that receiving a scholarship should never be a source of shame. He stressed that education is a fundamental right for all individuals, encouraging students to embrace opportunities for learning without hesitation or embarrassment.

The 19th annual event served as a powerful reminder of Mukti’s unwavering commitment to education, highlighting the transformative power of knowledge and the importance of ensuring that no talent is overlooked due to financial constraints. Through the TSS program, Mukti continues to inspire and empower students, laying the foundation for a brighter, more equitable future.

 

Gallery link: https://muktiweb.org/gallery/album/19th-annual-programme-of-tss