Empowering underprivileged students beyond financial aid: Insights from a scholarship program's monitoring and evaluation

Purpose: This paper examines the impact of a scholarship program on underprivileged students, drawing on data from a two-year monitoring and evaluation (M&E) process. The report identifies both enablers and barriers to academic success among scholarship beneficiaries. Methods: Data on program impact was collected through interviews with parents, teachers, and school records over two academic years. Results: Financial aid emerged as a crucial enabler, with scholarships allowing students to focus on their studies by alleviating pressure around basic necessities. However, the research also revealed the importance of a holistic support system. Beyond tuition, the high cost of essential learning materials, including stationery, and subjectspecific resources, can create a significant barrier. The study also highlighted the importance of student wellbeing. Health concerns, limited access to nutritious food, and even unaddressed mental health issues can all negatively impact attendance and focus. Furthermore, a gender gap emerged, with girls facing additional challenges related to social pressures to prioritize chores and the cost of menstrual hygiene products. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of holistic scholarship programs that extend beyond tuition coverage. To maximize impact, policymakers and funders should prioritize initiatives that address the multifaceted needs of underprivileged students.