Chairman of the Development Fund Council, Robert Kitt, noted in his speech at the scholarship ceremony that he started working even before beginning his university studies. “I hope today’s students won’t have to do the same,” he said. He urged employers not to snatch up diligent students into the job market during their first years of study. “Let young people learn—let’s support their journey with scholarships. They’ll be much more effective afterward.”

A total of 1,019 applications were submitted during the application period, of which 943 qualified. “With the scholarships awarded through the Development Fund, we are able to support about three percent of full-time students at TalTech. Just imagine the impact if we could raise that figure to five—or even ten—percent,” said Elinor Toming, Executive Director of the Development Fund.

A total of 483 students participated in the spring competition. On average, each scholarship received around 15 applications, but some companies attracted significantly more interest—for example, over 80 students applied for Swedbank’s scholarships. Scholarships aimed at students of the School of Engineering were also popular and the INFTF scholarships also received a high number of applications. 

Toming is pleased with the large number of applicants but admits that, since TalTech has many ambitious students, selecting a scholarship recipient can be more challenging than companies might expect. “This spring, ETS NORD offered a scholarship for the first time—after reviewing the candidates, they decided to award two additional special scholarships to the students who ranked second and third, seeing great potential in them,” explained the Executive Director of the Development Fund. The candidates had clear goals—such as purchasing educational materials on smoke extraction systems (ASHRAE/REHVA) and attending future industry fairs. The company is supporting both students with €400.

That TalTech students deserve more recognition is also demonstrated by ÄIO, who offered a scholarship for the first time this spring and decided to award two instead of one, simply because the candidates were so strong. “We were impressed by the young people's dedication and determination. Supporting them is a natural part of ÄIO’s mission. Through this scholarship, we aim to give future scientists the opportunity to tackle real-world sustainability challenges,” explained ÄIO co-founder and TalTech professor Petri-Jaan Lahtvee.

A recent survey conducted by the Development Fund clearly highlighted the need for support among students. Over half of the respondents said they needed financial help to cover living expenses or were saving/investing for a larger future goal. Out of 885 students, 750 live either on parental support or with the help of scholarships and state aid. According to the Executive Director of the Development Fund, there is a particular need for more scholarships in the School of Science and the Estonian Maritime Academy. “Students carry a heavy academic load, and working alongside their studies can be very difficult,” she noted.

The Development Fund extends heartfelt thanks to all its partners and supporters. The next round of applications opens already this autumn. Both companies and private individuals are welcome to offer scholarships—every contribution is highly valued! For more information, please contact Elinor Toming, Executive Director of the Development Fund, by email at elinor.toming@taltech.ee or by phone at +372 5520268.