Students receive scholarships from Taiwan

Persons receiving Taiwanese scholarships this week have been encouraged to use the funds as an incentive to pursue their

dreams.

On Tuesday, October 21, four hundred and fourteen students from secondary, primary and tertiary institutions received monetary assistance from the government of China{{more}} on Taiwan to help with the necessary items needed for them to comfortably attend school.

The scholarships are a part of an agreement which sees Taiwan donating US$100,000 each year to this initiative.

“I’m proud to say that the Taiwan scholarship is a very successful programme. Though the money itself is not very much for each student, for many years it has provided students with the financial incentive that not only benefits their studies, but also encourages them to pursue their dreams …and in return make contributions to their families, communities and then to their countries,” said Taiwanese Ambassador Baushuan Ger at the presentation ceremony.

Ger additionally stated that education is top priority when it comes to the bilateral cooperation between Taiwan and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

In her capacity as the Minister of Education, Girlyn Miguel stressed that the scholarships should be used to fulfill the educational needs of students.

“Boys and girls, the money is for education, to help you to fulfill your needs. We are meeting you at the point of your need,” Miguel said.

“If their fees have to be paid for exams, yes, we are thankful. If they must have some lunch, yes; if the shoe has a hole, yes. Meet them at their point of need.”

The Education Minister declared that it is the Ministry’s goal to lessen poverty by educating the nation’s children and have adopted the slogan: “we do not want anyone to be left behind, that we should have a literate society in St Vincent and the Grenadines.”

With regard to the scholarships, Miguel expressed disappointment in not being able to help more students. However, she noted that the Ministry is doing what they were asked to do and pleaded with students to take advantage of the opportunities given to them.

“Students, school is the place where you must go. Absenteeism

will not be accepted, especially for those we have looked out for today. The world of tomorrow does not have a good place for those of us who refuse to go to school,” she said. (BK)