The provincial government of Negros Occidental and Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC) have renewed the Abanse Negrense Business and Information Technology scholarship for the third year, with the signing of a memorandum of agreement at the MMDC Learning Hub at Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City Sept. 26.
This year, the scholarship covers full tuition and miscellaneous fees for almost 60 learners from the beginning of their college education until they graduate, the MMDC said.
“Since its creation in 2022, in partnership with the office of Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, the Abanse Negrense Business and I.T. Scholarship aims to transform the lives of Negrense learners by providing them with the support needed to pursue higher education, Engr. Dennis Tablante, MMDC executive director, said.
“We are delighted to work together again to support the province’s holistic development through education. Continuing this initiative further accelerates the digitalization of Negros Occidental by providing learners with a solid professional foundation grounded on Mapúan academic excellence and community impact through service,” Tablante said.
Lacson said the MOA signing represents a new door to a world of opportunities for the scholars.
“Please consider that this scholarship is not just financial assistance, but an investment for your future,” he told the scholars during the MOA signing. “I encourage each of you to strive for excellence as you embrace this great opportunity. You are leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. Be assured that your provincial government will support you on this journey.”
A total of 51 grantees from Victorias, Silay, La Carlota, Ilog, Sipalay, Hinigaran, Talisay, Murcia, Pontevedra, Kabankalan,Hinoba-an, Cauayan, Toboso, Manapla, Binalbagan, and San Carlos also signed the MOA.
Lacson thanked the MMDC for the continued partnership and confidence in the Negrense students.
A key component of the scholarship is the volunteer work program where grantees must tender one year of volunteer work with the provincial government to support the advancement of the province’s digital projects and programs.
This creates invaluable opportunities for learners to apply knowledge and soft skills in practical and real-world settings that stand to benefit from their education, the MMDC said.
“The Abanse Negrense scholarship continues to empower our youth with the education they need to thrive in the digital age. Our ongoing partnership with MMDC underscores our commitment to nurturing future IT leaders in Negros Occidental. We look forward to inspiring more students to pursue their education and contribute to the province’s digital transformation,” Lacson said.
He also lauded the Negros Occidental Scholarship Program Division, headed by Karen Dinsay, for the dynamic and committed dedication to the development of the Negrense learners. ||
