Historic $100 Million Donation Boosts Women in STEM

Historic $100 Million Donation to Boost Women in STEM at the University of Sydney

The University of Sydney has received an unprecedented $100 million donation from the Khuda Family Foundation—the largest single philanthropic gift in New South Wales history. This transformative 20-year initiative aims to create a sustainable pipeline for young women from Western Sydney into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and careers.

The program, uniquely structured in three stages, will begin in Year 7, providing students with essential tutoring, mentorship, and ultimately, university scholarships. As one of the largest global investments in women’s STEM education, this initiative will have a lasting impact on gender diversity in technology and science fields.

Robin Khuda, founder and CEO of AirTrunk, an Australian-founded data center company, established the Khuda Family Foundation with a mission to enhance STEM skills and increase female participation in technology.

The Khuda Family Foundation STEM Program directly addresses the ongoing gender disparity in STEM fields by encouraging young women to engage with STEM subjects early, supporting them through tertiary education, and equipping them to enter male-dominated industries with confidence and competence.

"Robin Khuda came to the University with a challenge he knew we cared deeply about—the lack of gender diversity in STEM and the need for greater opportunities and support for students to pursue their passions in science and technology," said Professor Mark Scott, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Sydney. "Through this remarkable partnership, we are shaping the future of STEM by creating life-changing opportunities for young women from Western Sydney."

"Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of the Khuda Family Foundation, this program will not only impact individual students but will also drive systemic change in diversity, skills development, and industry participation," he added.

For students seeking the best pathways into STEM and other higher education opportunities, MyCourseFinder.com offers the tools and guidance to secure a bright academic future. By exploring programs, scholarships, and career trajectories through MyCourseFinder.com, students can make informed decisions that lead to rewarding and successful careers in STEM and beyond.