Foundation For Excellence India Trust (FFEIT)

The Foundation for Excellence India Trust (FFEIT) is the Indian arm of the United States-headquartered Foundation for Excellence Inc. (FFE). It creates a wave of hope and prosperity, breaking the cycle of despair and launching students into a path of excellence by providing scholarships to economically weak, deserving students pursuing professional courses thereby impacting and transforming the lives of students through higher education support. Beyond financial support, FFEIT offers soft skills training, upskilling opportunities, and individual mentorship from corporate volunteers and alumni, preparing students for successful careers.

Major Interventions:

Scholarship Program: FFEIT offers merit-cum-means scholarships to students pursuing professional degrees in Technology, Engineering, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Law. Designed to support exceptionally talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder their educational aspirations. Scholarships are awarded based on merit and family income, with eligibility requiring students to meet rank criteria from national or state exams and an annual family income cap of Rs. 3 Lakhs. The program, which has been successfully running for 29 years, provided annual scholarships of at least Rs. 40,000 to eligible students in FY23, renewable until graduation. Beyond financial aid, the program includes Student Development Programs offering skills training, mentoring, and employment opportunities, ensuring a comprehensive support system for the scholars.

Skill Development and Job Readiness Program: This comprehensive 4-year training initiative for Engineering, BPharm, and Law students involves a curated set of skills courses provided through vendor partners. It starts with first-year students completing the AMCAT (Aspiring Minds' Computer Adaptive Test) diagnostic assessment by Aspiring Minds to identify specific skill gaps. Throughout the program, students receive training via app-based platforms, including Baseline and Endline tests, advanced English learning programs, technical skills training, and mock interviews. Corporate partners offer additional virtual training in technical and soft skills, effectively addressing skill gaps and resulting in minimal dropout rates, high job placement records, and impressive salaries for graduating engineers.

Leadership & Mentorship Program: The FLY (Find the Leader in You) workshops are designed to impart non-cognitive skills essential for personality and character development, focusing on five key pillars: Conscientiousness, Taking Initiative, Perseverance, Innovativeness, and Problem Solving. The in-house mentoring program facilitates regular one-on-one interactions providing students with valuable insights into real-world expectations and situations. It connects third-year scholars with industry experts for personalized career guidance, enhancing skills and boosting career readiness. Feedback highlights high satisfaction, celebrating successful partnerships and recognizing outstanding mentors through dedicated sessions.