Kiwi gov’t affirms support to Phl through study grants
The New Zealand government reiterates its gesture of support to the Duterte administration through strengthening its educational aid to the Philippines, specifically in Visayas.
"New Zealand is determined to do what we can to support the Duterte administration’s efforts to promote more balanced regional development in the Philippines. I am personally committed to do what we can to help talented students in the Visayas to recognize their potential,” said New Zealand Ambassador David Strachan.
The New Zealand Embassy to the Philippines recently announced the opening of its ASEAN New Zealand Scholarships in the Visayas during the ambassador’s recent visit to Cebu.
The ambassador met with students from different universities and encouraged them to take advantage of New Zealand education through these scholarships.
“New Zealand is unique in having all of its eight universities ranked in the world’s top 3 percent. It is a great opportunity for personal and academic growth and a way to make a difference to the Philippines upon return,” Strachan said.
The scholarship is funded by the New Zealand Government through the New Zealand Aid Programme.
Yearly, 24 qualified individuals are awarded scholarships to pursue post- graduate degrees in New Zealand. New Zealand Scholarships foster and build future leaders as well as equipping scholars with skills and knowledge to benefit their country.
There will be a preference for applicants from the Visayas and Mindanao. These scholars will be selected through a competitive process to ensure that they will be able to adapt and excel at New Zealand education institutions.
This year, four scholars from the Visayas region will head to New Zealand to begin their post graduate degree. They are Johannes Magpusao (PhD in Food Science, University of Otago), John Lester Lastimosa (Master of Business in Finance, Lincoln University), Norma Bagarinao (Master of Food Technology, Massey University), and Patrice Sucalit (Master of Energy, University ofAuckland). —