The 82 new grantees of the Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) program of the Department of Science and Technology- Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) took oath on Nov. 24.
In her message, the Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera Director Nancy A. Bantog said the scholarship program aims to cultivate a competent science and technology workforce that will eventually help develop the country in the rapidly evolving global environment.
“We believe that these individuals hold the key to unlocking the Philippines’ potential in the fields of science and technology. Through this scholarship program, we aim to provide our qualifiers with the necessary financial support and academic guidance to pursue their dreams of becoming scientists and technologists. We also hope to instill in them a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to using their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on society,” Bantog said.
Prior to the oath-taking ceremony, the grantees signed a scholarship agreement stating the rules and guidelines, as well as the obligations of DOST-Cordillera and the grantees throughout the program.
The JLSS program is one of the DOST undergraduate scholarship programs offered to regular third year college students, currently enrolled in priority S&T courses in accredited universities.
Qualifiers enjoy various benefits such as free tuition and other school fees, book allowance, and monthly stipends, amounting to P120,000 per academic year for two to three years. To enjoy these benefits, scholars must maintain good academic standing.
The program is awarded in three categories, including merit scholarship, which is awarded to students with high aptitude in science and mathematics and who are willing to pursue careers in the field of science and technology.
The Republic Act 7687 category, also known as the Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994 provides scholarships to talented and deserving students whose families’ socio-economic status does not exceed the set cut-off values of certain indicators. Scholars in this category must be willing to pursue priority fields of study in the basic sciences, engineering, other applied sciences, and science and mathematics teaching.
The RA 10612 scholarship program, meanwhile, aims to strengthen the country’s science and technology education by fast-tracking graduates in the sciences, mathematics, and engineering who shall teach science and mathematics in secondary schools throughout the country.
The new scholars are currently enrolled in state universities and colleges in the Cordillera, specifically in Baguio City, Benguet, Ifugao, and Mountain Province.
Bantog encouraged the qualifiers to take advantage of the opportunity to learn and grow in their fields. She also reassured them of DOST-Cordillera’s unwavering support throughout their academic journey. – Press release
