“Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world” - Nelson Mandela
As Malaysia aspires to emerge as a developed, high-income economy, building our skilled resources and talent pool through quality and equitable education is necessary. Besides, the role of education in enhancing quality of life and for eradicating poverty is also critical. In view of this, the idea of establishing INDUS Education Foundation (IEF) was seeded by YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, the Prime Minister of Malaysia way back in March 2014. IEF took shape as public-private initiative, when Tan Sri Datuk G. Gnanalingam assumed leadership as the Executive Chairman.
IEF continues to remain true to its primary objective of helping to elevate the socioeconomic status of the Malaysian Indian community through access to education. Since inception, IEF has extended ‘interest-free’ financial support of RM 14 million to 496 high-potential Malaysian Indian students from middle and low-income families. Owing to the support, the beneficiary students are able to pursue higher education (Pre – University and Undergraduate) in their preferred discipline except for medicine, dentistry and pilot training.
IEF recognises the social disparity and the under-represented Malaysian Indian community, who comprise only 3 per cent of the approximate 100,000 students, who are admitted annually into 20 Public Higher Educational Institutions (IPTAs).
