Bengaluru-based Syngene International, a leading integrated research, development and manufacturing services company, has announced the second cohort of the Scholarship, Mentoring and Industry Orientation for Women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) in collaboration with the Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH). 

This programme offers scholarships to women studying STEM subjects at tier 2 and 3 institutions across various regions of the country, to enable them to gain industry experience in research institutions and companies and receive mentoring support.

Out of 549 applications, 216 profiles were shortlisted based on academic merit, socio-economic background, and STEM disciplines. One-on-one interviews were conducted with 151 students to assess their achievements and research interests.

The top 60 applications were then reviewed by the Selection Committee, comprising experts from both industry and academia. As a result, the second cohort of the programme has identified 30 women, with 10 selected from undergraduate programmes and 20 from postgraduate programmes.

Despite increased female enrolment in existing STEM programmes, dropout rates and limited career opportunities persist, especially for women from tier 2 and 3 cities. The Syngene/RICH programme addresses these issues by offering scholarships and mentorship, enabling students to gain internships and practical experience in top research institutions and industries.