ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines and Taiwan have signed a new memorandum of understanding on human resource development.{{more}}

The agreement was signed on November 19 by Ambassador Leo Lee, on behalf of Taiwan, and Minister of Education Girlyn Miguel at conference room of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Miguel said that since Taiwan and SVG established diplomatic relations in 1981 a large number of Vincentians had benefited from assistance. She singled out the scholarship programme, which had helped a significant number of students in need.

Ambassador Lee said Taiwan has provided scholarship funds of US $100,000 yearly to SVG students between 1998 and 2008. Thousands of students have benefited from the programme.

In order to continue to assist SVG in enhancing its human resources, Taiwan decided to launch a new human resources development programme for another five years, starting 2009.

Under this programme, US $100,000 will be allocated annually to SVG students as scholarships. He revealed that the number of scholarships for students pursing vocational education would be increased in order to meet SVG’s national development needs.

Primary to college-level students with good grades, who are from underprivileged families or suffer physical challenges, can apply for the scholarships. A Reviewed Committee, comprising representatives from the Ministry of Education, schools, the Community College and the embassy will review applications.