Mangaluru: The Centre for Advanced Learning (CFAL) has welcomed 30 bright students into its flagship Pragathi Program, a fully sponsored initiative aimed at supporting talented scholars from government and aided PU colleges. This programme provides free, high-quality coaching for competitive exams like JEE and NEET, helping meritorious students from financially challenged families pursue their academic dreams.
Since its inception, the Pragathi Program has changed the lives of over 120 students, bridging the gap between aspiration and opportunity. The 2025 batch continues this legacy of empowerment, reinforcing CFAL’s mission to make top-tier education accessible to all.
Selection process and student intake
This year, the Pragathi entrance exam attracted 712 students from 10 government and aided PU colleges in Mangaluru. From these, 100 students progressed to the next stage, submitting a statement of purpose (SOP) for evaluation. Following a detailed review and economic background verification, 30 students were finally chosen for the 2025–2027 cohort.
These students will now receive completely free coaching for JEE, NEET, and KCET through both online and offline modes. This initiative ensures that financial limitations do not stand in the way of ambition and potential.
Why Pragathi matters for the community
Education remains the most powerful driver of social mobility. For students from underprivileged families, access to advanced exam coaching can mean a life-changing difference. Through Pragathi, CFAL guarantees that merit and determination, not economic status, shape future success.
The impact of this programme has drawn recognition from the Chief Minister’s Office, earning it a place in the Chief Minister’s annual book on Best Governance Practices in 2022.
Voices of success and inspiration
The real measure of Pragathi’s success lies in the stories of its alumni. One such example is Ashel Pais, a rural student from Dakshina Kannada who, after securing a Pragathi scholarship, excelled in NEET and achieved her medical dream. Stories like hers demonstrate the programme’s transformative potential.
A call for collective support
CFAL invites parents, alumni, and well-wishers to contribute by sponsoring students, mentoring participants, or spreading awareness about the programme. Community involvement can help expand the reach of this impactful initiative, enabling more deserving students to access life-changing educational opportunities.
About CFAL
With over 15 years of experience, CFAL has been committed to making world-class coaching available to every student, regardless of their financial situation. The Pragathi Program stands as a testament to this mission, fostering academic excellence and uplifting entire communities.