Software engineer’s NGO supports 500+ rural students in Anantapur

Anantapur: Software engineer Ashok Padapati started ‘Vadhanya Jana Society’ in 2010 to help rural students continue their education despite financial struggles.

In 15 years, the NGO has supported 500+ underprivileged students from rural Andhra Pradesh with scholarships, books, coaching, and hostel facilities.

It conducts talent tests in government schools and funds higher education and competitive exam prep. Success stories include students who made it to IIT Madras, IIT Kharagpur, IISc Bengaluru, and secured government jobs.

Ashok, now a corporate team leader, began the initiative by asking friends to contribute 0.5% of their salaries. His work has been recognized by the AP government and actor Nandamuri Balakrishna.