This year, 18 Fijian students so far have rejected scholarships to study in India after it was awarded to them.

This was confirmed by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Indian Cultural Centre director Kishan Lal Kanojia yesterday.

“I am sad about the fact that 18 students rejected their scholarships to study in India. This is not the case every year,” he said.

Mr Kanojia  said the students rejected the scholarship offers for various reasons.

“Firstly when these students applied for scholarships they had decided which course they wanted to study.

“But, when they were awarded the scholarships they wanted to change their course.”

He said another reason was that some students wanted to study at Delhi University but they got scholarships to study in Pune or Bangalore University.

Mr Kanojia said Pune and Bangalore University were among the top 10 universities in India.

“Other students who had applied for this scholarship, unfortunately missed their opportunities to study in India because of these students,” Mr Kanojia said.

Feedback:  shahani.mala@fijisun.com.fj