R ARIVANANTHAM
CHENNAI, MARCH 10
Metropolis Foundation, the CSR arm of India’s leading diagnostic chain, Metropolis Healthcare Limited, hosted the 6th edition of the MedEngage Annual Summit 2024 on Sunday in Chennai. As the flagship CSR initiative of Metropolis, MedEngage serves as a holistic medical outreach program that nurtures young medical talent in India. Envisioned by Metropolis Chairman, Dr. Sushil Shah, MedEngage is designed to offer comprehensive guidance, support and direction to emerging healthcare professionals in India.
At this year’s summit, a total of scholarships worth Rs 1.7 crore were awarded to 301 medical students, out of which 29 students were presented with research grants. MedEngage Scholarships were presented to undergraduate and postgraduate medical students across all years of MBBS education, including the postgraduate training years of MD/MS/DNB, alongside the intervening internship year. The scholarships acknowledge outstanding achievements in academic scores, extra-curricular activities, and research papers/thesis presentations.
- One-third of the total student beneficiaries are from South India
- 10 per cent of total beneficiaries from humble background with good merit are hailing TN
- Almost 60% of scholarship recipients are women
- 6,019 applications received from 603 cities in 29 states of India
- 150+ applications received from Aspirational districts
- Window for application opens every November & selection process ends in February
Key government officials from Tamil Nadu, including Kumar Jayant, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government, Labour Welfare, and Skill Development Department, and Dr P Shanmugapriya, MD., Associate Professor of Microbiology, Nodal Officer (e-Governance) at Directorate of Medical Education and Research, Tamil Nadu, graced the event as Chief Dignitaries. Additionally, medical luminaries from different specialties also participated in the event, contributing to the recognition of the nation’s emerging medical talent.
A key highlight is that 60% of the scholarship recipients are women, emphasizing the program’s commitment to gender diversity and inclusivity in the medical field. Furthermore, in line with the initiative to support government efforts in uplifting 112 Aspirational districts across the country, around 60 students were selected from such districts, reflecting the program’s dedication to societal development and equitable access to opportunities. The entire selection process is managed by Deloitte and involves a thorough and competitive procedure for choosing scholarship recipients. Additionally, an eminent jury from the medical fraternity evaluated candidates for research grants, fostering a culture of research and innovation.
Commenting on the program, Surendran Chemmenkottil, Chief Executive Officer, Metropolis Healthcare Limited said: “In India, while the demand for healthcare professionals is high, financial constraints and skill gaps hinder many aspiring medical students. Metropolis Foundation’s MEDENGAGE, aims to bridge this gap by providing financial support and opportunities. Our commitment to education and diversity aims to address workforce shortages and create a more inclusive future. By nurturing innovation, we empower the next generation to drive advancements in patient care, improving community health outcomes”.
In a statement Dr Duru Shah, Chairperson, Metropolis Foundation said: “The MedEngage Scholarship program is empowering future healthcare experts and nurturing a healthier, more resilient society for generations to come. It is incredibly gratifying to witness the overwhelming response from young medical students nationwide, with a remarkable 6,019 applications received this year from both government and private medical colleges spanning 603 cities across 29 states. Through this initiative, we are not only enhancing the educational landscape but also providing invaluable support to promising students as they pursue breakthroughs in healthcare research and innovation.”
Dr Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific Officer and Group Head of CSR, Metropolis Healthcare said, “MedEngage embodies our mission at Metropolis: to guide, support, and inspire the future of healthcare. It is the result of our Chairman’s vision and our dedicated CSR efforts. It serves as a beacon of hope for hardworking medical students, reflecting our commitment to addressing their unique needs. By gathering data through surveys and interviews, we tailor our support accordingly. Through digital platforms, we are expanding our reach across the country, aiming to strengthen and inclusively improve healthcare in India.”
The MedEngage scholarship program not only provides financial assistance to deserving students but also facilitates hands-on experience and practical knowledge through Metropolis’ state-of-the-art laboratories nationwide, under expert guidance. Furthermore, MedEngage offers a spectrum of opportunities, including Observership Programs, Academic Research Support, Laboratory Tours, Internships, and MedTalk webinars, tailored to enrich the educational journey of our young medical talents.
