February 16, 2016 | New Delhi

Within two days of the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding among the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IIT-GN), and Karmany  to launch an internship program, over 100 undergraduate students at IIT-GN have hit “apply.” 

As part of this program, Karmany created a user-friendly online portal where undergraduate students can find and apply for internship opportunities with USAID partner organizations, working in sectors including clean energy, health, women’s empowerment, and innovation. Though the program is initially launched for IIT-GN students, USAID and Karmany will open the portal to all IIT students in the coming months.

Speaking about the overwhelming response received in its first two days, Ambassador Jonathan Addleton, Mission Director, USAID/India said, “These are India’s best and most motivated young minds, and seeing their desire to work with USAID partners to end tuberculosis in India, bring safe drinking water to city slums, or light up India’s homes with clean energy is very inspiring. This internship program is just one aspect of our joint efforts and continuing commitment to create a cadre of professionals who will combine their technological prowess, innovative thinking, and development experience to make a difference in India in some of the areas that matter the most.”

Sudhir Jain, Director, IIT-Gandhinagar, stated, “The students of IIT-Gandhinagar are passionate about social engagement. This partnership with USAID and Karmany will provide them with excellent internship opportunities with various USAID implementing partners. We are excited about the potential of this partnership.”

Shweta Gandhi, Founder and CEO, Karmany, said, “Traditionally, IIT graduates have considered joining big businesses to build fulfilling careers. Karmany is excited to enable India’s top talent to now seamlessly solve the most pressing issues across sectors such as education, health, and agriculture. We are making an in-kind contribution of $100,000 for this innovative partnership so that these bright minds can have the opportunity to contribute in India’s march to progress.”