Sumangala Steel commits ₹2.8 crore for scholarships for 70 engineering students

N. Ravi, Director, Kasturi & Sons Ltd., and IIT-M Director V. Kamakoti handing over the scholarship to a student on Saturday.

Sumangala Steel has committed ₹2.8 crore towards engineering education for the children of construction workers and steel dealership employees, with 70 students receiving scholarships at the fourth edition of its ‘Ungal Kuzhandayum Aagalaam Engineer’ initiative here on Saturday.

N. Ravi, Director, Kasturi & Sons Limited, who participated in the distribution of scholarships, said: “This scholarship from Sumangala is a wonderful display of such commitment.” He advised students to remain lifelong learners amid rapid technological changes and help needy students pursue education once they settled in life.

The scholarships were distributed by IIT-Madras Director V. Kamakoti, who felicitated 20 newly selected scholars and recognised 50 students from the previous three editions. The first batch of scholars will graduate this year.

“Core disciplines like Civil or Mechanical Engineering reward experience with expertise that cannot be substituted. If your foundation is strong, you can build as many floors as you want; if it is weak, the building will fall when you reach the fourth or fifth floor,” Mr. Kamakoti said.

Sumangala Steel Chairman Rajendran Sabanayagam said, “The purpose of this scholarship is to cover not only the tuition fees but also living expenses, which have become a major burden on the students’ families.”

Sumangala Steel President Ashwin Sabanayagam said, “We don’t simply say Sumangala, Thamizh Naattin Ul Shakti [the inner strength of Tamil Nadu]. We will continue to do our best to show it through our steel and our deeds.”

Launched in 2023, the initiative supports eligible students pursuing engineering and diploma courses in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Students must secure at least 70% in Class 12, while the combined annual income of parents must not exceed ₹6 lakh. The scholarship provides up to ₹1 lakh a year towards education and living expenses, along with a free laptop. Support continues for the duration of the course, subject to academic performance, discipline and attendance.