The Cebu Provincial Government has announced a significant educational initiative, partnering with Cebu Normal University (CNU) College of Medicine and Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) to launch a scholarship program benefiting 40 students. This collaboration aims to address the growing need for doctors in the province while supporting aspiring medical professionals.
Financial Support and Eligibility Criteria
Under the signed agreement, the provincial government will cover tuition fees for selected scholars, with amounts ranging from P74,000 to P78,000 per student. These funds will be sourced from the governor's office educational fund, ensuring dedicated financial backing for the program.
Dr. Laurence Garcia, President of CNU, emphasized the importance of selecting deserving beneficiaries. "We will ensure that only qualified students receive this scholarship," he stated. Key eligibility requirements include being a native of Cebu Province and maintaining high academic grades.
Application Process and Requirements
Dr. Jarungchai Sato Vatanagul, Dean of CNU-VSMMC, confirmed that applications are now open for interested candidates. Prospective scholars must submit the following documents:
- Baccalaureate Degree or any pre-medical course certificate
- General Weighted Average records
- National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) results
- Entrance Examination scores
- Interview completion
- Parental income statements
- Proof of provincial residency
Program Accountability and Service Commitment
Since the program's inception, a small number of students have been removed from the scholarship due to dropping out or transferring, with reports indicating only two to three cases. Dr. Vatanagul noted that students who fail to complete their studies must reimburse the tuition fees paid by the province.
However, upon graduation, scholars are encouraged to serve at provincial hospitals, fostering a cycle of community healthcare improvement. This requirement not only ensures a return on investment but also directly addresses the shortage of medical professionals in Cebu.
Addressing Educational and Healthcare Needs
This scholarship program is strategically designed to alleviate financial burdens for students while simultaneously tackling the critical demand for doctors in Cebu Province. By investing in local talent, the initiative aims to create a sustainable pipeline of healthcare providers dedicated to serving their home communities.
The partnership between the provincial government, CNU, and VSMMC represents a proactive approach to enhancing both educational opportunities and public health infrastructure, setting a precedent for similar programs nationwide.
