Launch of the Shruti Giri Fund

The University of Groningen community marks the launch of the Shruti Giri Fund, an independent fund established in 2025 under the Groninger Universiteitsfonds (GUF). The fund honours the legacy of Shruti Giri (1999–2023), an exceptional physics student whose academic excellence, resilience, and commitment to inclusivity left a lasting impact.

Honouring an inspiring legacy

Shruti Giri began her Physics studies at the University of Groningen in 2018, where she quickly distinguished herself through outstanding academic performance and active engagement in the student community. Alongside her studies, she mentored fellow students, worked as a teaching assistant, and contributed to initiatives promoting inclusion in STEM.

Despite being diagnosed with bone cancer in 2021, she continued her studies whenever possible and graduated cum laude in 2023. That same year, she received the prestigious GUF-100 Prize as the university’s best student.

Supporting inclusion in STEM

The Shruti Giri Fund is dedicated to supporting students from underrepresented groups in STEM. Its mission is to promote equal opportunities, strengthen diversity, and help students succeed throughout their academic journey.

The fund will provide financial support such as fellowships and prizes, and will organise an annual Shruti Giri Symposium starting in 2027. This event will bring together students, researchers, and professionals to connect science, inclusion, and societal engagement.

A collaborative initiative

The fund was founded by Elisabetta Chicca, Aleksandra Biegun, and Manuela Vecchi, and is governed by a board that also includes student representatives. It is further supported by a Development & Outreach Committee composed of members from across the university.

Together, they aim to build a strong and sustainable initiative that reflects Shruti’s vision: a STEM community where talent is supported, diversity is valued, and opportunities are accessible to all.