NGO awards scholarship to 33 underprivileged students

Tribune News service

Amritsar, May 23

Punjabi Samvad, an NGO working in the field of culture, once again successfully executed its scholarship programme ‘Ik loh parhayi de divey layi’. This time the NGO awarded 33 underprivileged children with scholarship for helping them pursue their education.

The event was held at Punjab Naasthala here today. Dr SP Oberoi, a philanthropist, was the chief guest and Dr Karnail Shergill, was the guest of honour on the occasion. Every year the NGO gives away scholarships to help in education of children, especially the girl child.

“Our programme highlights the need for support and social acceptance for a better life for girls. We select children for scholarship through a screening test in which we take into consideration their academic and overall interests,” said Jyoti Bawa, patron, Punjabi Samvad.

A psychologist and social reformer, Bawa, also screened her documentary on drug abuse during the function. Titled ‘Tirhayi Umar’ (The age of curiosity), the script of the documentary is written-directed by Jyoti Bawa along with Daljeet Sona. The documentary explores vulnerability of teenagers’ curiosity to know and experience everything new, which sometimes leads to dangerous results of drug abuse and addiction.

Chairman, Punjabi Samvad, Gurbilas Singh, vice-president Raghav Seth and president Jyoti Bawa expressed their views on awarding scholarship and fight against social evils with the help of digital media. The event also highlighted Punjabi virsa and Indian form of dances with various theme performances. A special tribute was paid to Amit Bawa, the founder member of Punjabi Samvad, on the occasion.