Srinagar, Dec 7: Saathi Scholarship Test, conducted by Sadam KIE (SKIE), witnessed an overwhelming response across Kashmir on Sunday, with more than 5,000 students appearing at four centres, including Parray Pora, Raj Bagh, and Soura in Srinagar, and Anantnag in South Kashmir.
The large-scale scholarship test was organised to identify meritorious students and provide them with financial and academic support for competitive exams and foundation courses. Students from different districts arrived early at the centres, while parents accompanied many candidates, reflecting growing trust in the institute’s academic initiatives.
Head of SKIE, Dr Sadam, who has over 25 years of teaching experience, said the purpose of Saathi Scholarship Test is to make quality education accessible to deserving students irrespective of their financial background. “Our aim is to encourage talent and provide support to students who are serious about their academic future. The response today shows the hunger among students to perform and excel,” Dr Sadam said.
He announced that students who could not appear in Sunday’s test due to unavoidable reasons would be given another opportunity. “The Saathi Scholarship Test for Class 8 to 12 and NEET/JEE will again be conducted on December 14 at all four branches. The reporting time for candidates will be 11:30 AM,” he said.
Students who appeared in the test described the experience as motivating and well-structured. “The paper was competitive but fair. It helped me understand where I stand and what areas I need to improve,” said a student from Srinagar. Another aspirant from South Kashmir said the scholarship opportunity would be a major relief for students from modest backgrounds.
Parents accompanying their children also expressed satisfaction. “Dr Sadam has decades of experience and understands students very well. Initiatives like this scholarship test motivate children and reduce financial burden on families,” a parent at the Parray Pora centre told the news agency Kashmir News Trust. Another parent said the arrangements were systematic and transparent despite the huge turnout.
Many parents praised Dr Sadam’s long-standing contribution to education in Kashmir. “His experience shows in the way the institute functions. The focus is clearly on merit and discipline,” a parent remarked.
SKIE officials said the results of the scholarship test will be declared soon, and selected students will be informed about the benefits and further academic guidance. [KNT]
