AXA, a global financial services firm, has partnered with Friends Union for Energizing Lives (FUEL) to support STEM education for 40 girls in Bengaluru and Pune. This collaboration advances AXA’s larger commitment to empower 10,000 underprivileged girls across India with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education by 2030.
Expanding STEM Access Through ‘Dare To Thrive’
The partnership marks AXA Group’s 40th anniversary. It operates under AXA’s ‘Dare To Thrive’ initiative. AXA Global Business Services will work with ecosystem partners and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to identify and train girl students interested in STEM fields.
The support program includes several components. It provides scholarship grants. It also involves establishing new computer laboratories and distributing desktop computers. These resources aim to provide essential tools for STEM learning and skill development.
Impact and Future Goals
AXA Global Business Services has already supported over 2,500 girls through various industry partnerships in recent years. The company aims to accelerate these efforts to meet its 2030 target. This long-term commitment seeks to boost girl child education and enhance employability across India.
Leadership Perspectives
Alexander Vollert, Group Chief Operating Officer and CEO of AXA Group Operations, addressed the initiative’s goals. He stated supporting 10,000 girls in STEM contributes to broader societal transformation. Vollert highlighted the importance of creating a more inclusive world by promoting girl child education and improving their job prospects. He linked this effort to AXA’s core purpose: "protect what matters."
Ketan Deshpande, CEO of FUEL, also spoke about the partnership. He described FUEL’s mission: to empower young individuals, particularly girls from smaller towns. Deshpande emphasized providing necessary skill sets, training, and opportunities. These efforts build self-confidence and prepare students for employment. He expressed confidence in the partnership’s capacity to bring significant positive changes to the students’ lives.