In honor of International Women’s Day, Progress will open the application process for two Women in STEM scholarships on Friday, March 8.
Progress will begin accepting applications for the 2024 Women in Tech Scholarship Program in Bulgaria and the Akanksha Scholarship for Women in STEM in India on Friday, March 8—just in time for International Women’s Day.
Part of Progress’ Women in STEM Scholarship Series, these awards aim to increase the representation of women in computer science, software engineering, IT and/or computer information systems in Bulgaria and India. The third scholarship in this series, the Mary Székely Scholarship for Women in STEM in the U.S., began accepting applications on January 18. Applications for that scholarship will close on March 15.
“Appropriately, the United Nations’ theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is, ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’, putting a spotlight on greater economic inclusion for women and girls everywhere to reach their full potential,” said Yogesh Gupta, CEO, Progress. “We’re thrilled to offer scholarships that lend a helping hand to young women to advance their education. As a global software company, we feel it is our duty to support the journeys of future women leaders and innovators in STEM.”
Women in Tech Scholarship Program in Bulgaria
The Women in Tech Scholarship in Bulgaria includes two annual scholarships worth BGN 3,000 each. Young women in their second, third or fourth years at accredited universities are eligible to apply.
Since its inception, several exceptional women have received the Women in Tech Scholarship. Our 2023 recipients, Elitza Yotkova and Alisa Dermendzhiyska, have excelled academically and have been active members of their communities. Elitza is studying computer science at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics (FMI) at Sofia University, while Alisa is studying computer systems and technologies at the Technical University in Sofia, Bulgaria.
“I am honored to be a recipient of this scholarship and look forward to maximizing this opportunity to enhance my skills and knowledge in the IT sector," Alisa said. "By supporting women in technology, Progress is paving the way for a brighter future, empowering girls to pursue their passions and contribute to the ever-evolving world of technology.”
Completed applications are due April 12.
Akanksha Scholarship for Women in STEM in India
The Akanksha Scholarship for Women in STEM in India is a four-year, renewable scholarship of up to INR 1,50,000 annually. Women who reside in India and are currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in computer science, computer information systems, software engineering and/or IT are eligible to apply.
Last year’s recipient, Soumya Teotia, is a student at BITS Pilani in Hyderabad, India. She’s currently enrolled in a five-year dual-degree program, studying both computer science and mathematics.
“Presently, my area of interest is machine learning and artificial intelligence, specifically computer vision,” Soumya said. “I have a plan of working on the intersection of medicine and computer vision so that I can improve diagnoses and healthcare. If you use the power of artificial intelligence, it can do wonders.”
The deadline to submit applications for this scholarship is April 12.
Mary Székely Scholarship for Women in STEM
The Mary Székely Scholarship for Women in STEM is a four-year, $10,000 per-year renewable scholarship awarded to a Massachusetts resident. The application process opened on January 18, 2024, and will close on March 15.
The Women in STEM Scholarship Series is part of our corporate social responsibility program, Progress for Tomorrow. Through these scholarships, we’re helping to increase representation in STEM around the world. We’re proud to be able to give back to the people and communities we serve.
Jessica Kent
Jessica Kent was a content specialist at Progress.