The Chegg.org Global Student Prize, now in its fifth year and organized in partnership with the Varkey Foundation, awarded a $100,000 prize to an outstanding young individual who is currently studying at Jayshree Periwal International School. This initiative aims to recognize and celebrate students whose dedication, leadership, and innovative efforts are making significant impacts in their communities and beyond.
One of the inspiring young achievers of the Global Student Prize, 18-year-old Adarsh Kumar, stands out for his resilience, initiative, and commitment to improving society. At just eighteen, he co-founded the non-profit Mission Badlao with his sister-in-law
From the outset, their work focused on creating tangible benefits within their community. Among their numerous initiatives, they successfully secured land to establish a new government school, facilitated more than 2,000 Covid-19 vaccinations to protect vulnerable populations, distributed menstrual health products to promote hygiene and awareness, and planted an impressive 3,000 trees to support environmental sustainability.
Kumar’s leadership and drive continued to grow. At the age of 18, instead of following a conventional educational path, he embarked on a challenging journey by leaving his home with only 1,000 Rupees (roughly equivalent to $10 USD). Traveling hundreds of miles to the city of Kota—famous in India for its coaching centers—he sought preparation for the highly competitive Indian Institute of Technology Joint Entrance Examination (JEE).
Despite financial hurdles preventing him from affording traditional coaching classes, Kumar displayed ingenuity and resourcefulness. He transformed local libraries into makeshift classrooms, leveraging free Wi-Fi to reach out to mentors via email, securing internships, and shadowing successful entrepreneurs and professionals to gain practical knowledge and guidance.
These experiences not only helped him succeed academically but also laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial ventures. In 2023, Kumar launched Skillzo, a digital platform designed to empower inspiring young achievers and underserved high school students. Through Skillzo, young individuals gain access to mentorship, entrepreneurship training, and real-world experiences that prepare them for future success. Within just two years, Skillzo has made significant strides—over 20,000 students have benefited from its programs. Many of these young learners have gone on to secure scholarships, start their own ventures, and even earn national awards, reflecting the tangible impact of Kumar’s initiatives.
His extraordinary efforts and commitment to social change and education did not go unnoticed internationally. Kumar was named the youngest Google Youth Advisor, an accolade that positions him among a distinguished group of 52 global youth leaders shaping technology policy and innovation at an international level.
Selected from an impressive pool of nearly 11,000 nominations representing 148 countries, Kumar was awarded the Global Student Prize 2025 in a prestigious ceremony held near London. This event gathered influential leaders in education, advocacy, and policy, celebrating the achievements of remarkable young changemakers across the globe. During his acceptance speech, Kumar expressed his humility and joy, saying, “I am truly honoured and grateful to be here. This is a moment of pride, a dream come true for me.”
Varkey Foundation Founder Sunny Varkey highlighted Kumar’s inspiring journey, emphasizing its importance as a reminder of education’s power. “Your determination and vision demonstrate how education can transform even the greatest challenges into opportunities for a brighter tomorrow. More importantly, you have used what you’ve learned to make a meaningful, lasting impact on the lives of countless young people,” Varkey remarked, acknowledging Kumar as a true changemaker.
The Global Student Prize aims to elevate the stories of extraordinary students who are redefining their communities and influencing global change through innovation, leadership, and service. While applicants must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in an academic or training program—including part-time studies or online courses—the prize seeks to recognize young people whose efforts make a difference in the world.
The 2025 edition of this prize is also part of a broader initiative by the Varkey Foundation, which annually awards a USD $1 million Global Teacher Prize and has recently introduced a USD $1 million Global Schools Prize. These awards collectively aim to spotlight inspiring individuals and institutions committed to advancing education and societal well-being worldwide.
Kumar’s story exemplifies how even young individuals can effect profound change. His inspiring journey demonstrates the importance of perseverance, innovation, and compassion—values that the Global Student Prize continues to celebrate and promote among youth globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Global Student Prize?
The Global Student Prize is an international award organized by Chegg.org in partnership with the Varkey Foundation. It celebrates exceptional students making a positive impact through innovation, leadership, and social change.
How much is the Global Student Prize worth?
The winner receives a $100,000 prize, recognizing their outstanding contributions to education, community development, and global impact.
What is the goal of the Global Student Prize?
The prize aims to inspire young achievers and amplify the stories of students who are using their talents, creativity, and leadership to make a lasting difference locally and globally.
How can students apply for the Global Student Prize?
Eligible students must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in an academic or training program (full-time, part-time, or online). Applications and nomination details are available on the Varkey Foundation or Chegg.org websites.
