GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The city government is targeting to enlist poorer but deserving students this year for the rollout of its enhanced tertiary scholarship program.
John Peter Valdez, administrative officer of the Alay sa Kabataang Generals Lahat ng Alaga at Talino (Aklat) office, said Friday they are currently processing applications for additional college scholars in the coming School Year 2019-2020.
Dubbed Edukasyon Alang sa mga Kabus nga residente sa GenSan or EduKAR, Aklat personnel already received more than 700 applications from upcoming first year and continuing college students in the city's 26 barangays.
Aklat, which is a division under the City Mayor's Office, has set the deadline for applications on May 15, which was already extended thrice since last month.
"The extension was ordered by City Mayor Ronnel Rivera based on requests from prospective applicants," Valdez said in a statement.
Under the program, he said scholars will receive grants of PHP20,000 per semester for tuition and other fees, and a stipend or allowance of PHP2,000 a month.
A total of 442 scholars enrolled in degree courses in various colleges and universities in the city are being supported by the program, which has an annual budget of PHP15 million.
The city government supported an additional 300 scholars in the previous school year and has opened at least 150 slots this year.
Valdez said the basic requirements for application are school-related records, community tax certificate, barangay certification, voter's certification, and certificate of indigency from the City Social Welfare and Development Office.
He added that the applications undergo a stringent selection system, which includes a panel interview and other related processes. (Jose P. Aponesto/PNA)
