Punjab Kings announce Shikhar Dhawan Foundation and M3M Foundation agreements to support girls education

The Punjab Kings (PBKS) have announced partnership agreements with Shikhar Dhawan Foundation and M3M Foundation to support girls education.

As per the agreements, the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise will help amplify the organisations’ voices. A scholarship will also be launched, which will see M3M Foundation, with Shikhar Dhawan Foundation serving as implementation partner, commit support to one young girl for her vocational education for every 25 runs scored or every three wickets taken by the Kings during their home games in IPL 2024.

Through the initiative, the organisation will offer vocational education support to 111 girls for up to ?5 lakh, covering a total amount of ?5.55 crore over the next five years.

The scholarship will be used towards funding the education of deserving girls from economically-disadvantaged homes for their higher vocational training to help them become financially independent and shape their future. The funds will be provided to the girls from the undergraduate level till they finish graduating and will be agnostic to their education choice.

Speaking about the initiative, Shikhar Dhawan, PBKS Captain, said:

“I am delighted that my IPL franchise decided to partner with our cause and amplify our initiative in such a unique and interesting way. With the support of our Shers, we hope to secure the future of young girls in the country and to ensure our aid reaches those who are in need to have a sustainable future.“

Satish Menon, CEO, KPH Dream Cricket Limited, added:

“This is a wonderful initiative, and we are delighted to do our part in enabling equal opportunities to each one. We are confident that we will be able to help those in need, and we hope to create a society where all girls can spread their wings and achieve their dreams.“

Dr Payal Kanodia, M3M Foundation Chairperson and Trustee, said:

“As stewards of progress and champions of change, we acknowledge that educating girls is pivotal in building a thriving society. We are happy that together, we are trying to pave the path towards a future where every girl, irrespective of her background, is empowered through education to reach her fullest potential and illuminate the world with her brilliance. With deep appreciation, we extend our gratitude to Shikhar Dhawan Foundation and Punjab Kings for their invaluable partnership in advancing girl child education with us through this initiative.“