Late Shri Santosh Kumar Shrivastava

A Life That Inspired a Movement

The Scientific Knowledge for Youth (SKY) Foundation stands today as a symbol of scientific awareness, education, innovation, and service to society. Behind this vision lies the extraordinary life of Late Shri Santosh Kumar Shrivastava, whose courage, determination, and selfless spirit continue to inspire every initiative undertaken by the Foundation.

Born on 1 January 1965 in the peaceful village of Tikhampur, District Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, India, Shri Santosh Kumar Shrivastava's life began with humble beginnings. His childhood was shaped by challenges that would have discouraged many. Losing his father at a very young age brought immense responsibility upon his shoulders. Financial hardship forced him to discontinue his formal education after completing Class X.

For many, this might have marked the end of their dreams. For Shri Santosh Kumar Shrivastava, it was only the beginning.

"He firmly believed that circumstances may delay success, but they can never stop determination."

Instead of giving up, he entered the workforce at a young age, undertaking every honest job available to support his family. These experiences taught him resilience, discipline, responsibility, and compassion—qualities that became the foundation of his remarkable life.

The Entrepreneur Who Created Opportunities

Driven by an entrepreneurial mindset and a deep desire to uplift others, he established Santosh Construction Company.

His company became much more than a business enterprise. It became a source of livelihood for numerous young people in his hometown and surrounding areas. He believed that employment is one of the greatest forms of social service because it restores dignity, confidence, and hope. Many families found financial stability through the opportunities he created.

Even during periods of business success, he remained humble, approachable, and committed to helping those in need.

Rising Again After Adversity

Life presented him with another major challenge when circumstances led to the closure of his business. Most people would have accepted defeat. He chose to begin again.

With unwavering determination, he joined the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC of India) as a Record Clerk. His dedication, integrity, punctuality, and sincerity quickly distinguished him from others. Through years of relentless hard work and exemplary service, he steadily rose through the ranks.

He eventually retired from service as an Assistant Administrative Officer (AAO), earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, officers, and customers alike. His professional journey remains an inspiring example that true success is achieved through honesty, perseverance, and continuous self-improvement.

Education Never Ends

Although financial hardship had interrupted his education during childhood, his desire to learn never faded. While serving in LIC, balancing professional responsibilities and family life, he resumed his education.

Years after leaving school, he successfully completed his Post-Graduation, proving that learning has no age limit.

« "Never stop learning. Education is the only wealth that grows when you share it." »

His own life became the strongest proof of this belief.

A Compassionate Human Being & Loving Father

Those who knew Shri Santosh Kumar Shrivastava remember him not merely as an officer or entrepreneur but as a man with an exceptionally kind heart. He never ignored someone seeking help. Whether it was guiding a student, supporting a struggling family, encouraging a colleague, or helping a neighbour, he believed that serving humanity was life's highest purpose.

Within his family, he was a pillar of strength. He believed that children should not simply inherit property—they should inherit values. Whenever challenges arose, he reminded them: "Nothing is impossible. Every great achievement begins with faith, determination, and hard work."

The Birth of SKY Foundation

One day, his elder son shared a dream. He wanted to establish an organization dedicated to promoting scientific temper, astronomy, education, innovation, environmental awareness, and youth empowerment.

Rather than questioning the idea, Shri Santosh Kumar Shrivastava immediately encouraged it. He believed that India could become stronger only when its youth embraced science, rational thinking, creativity, and innovation. His moral support, blessings, encouragement, and unwavering faith transformed a dream into reality.

Thus was born the Scientific Knowledge for Youth (SKY) Foundation.

His Living Legacy

Today, SKY Foundation continues to work in the spirit of his ideals by organizing:

• Science awareness programmes
• Astronomy and space science outreach
• STEM education initiatives
• Planetarium and sky observation programmes
• Scientific exhibitions
• Innovation and research promotion
• Environmental awareness campaigns
• Youth leadership programmes
• Educational workshops and seminars
• Community development initiatives

Every programme conducted by SKY Foundation reflects his lifelong values of honesty, compassion, education, service, and scientific thinking.

Our Guiding Principles

Inspired by Late Shri Santosh Kumar Shrivastava, SKY Foundation follows these core values: