50 DOrSU students from coconut-growing families awarded scholarships under CoScho Program
Fifty students of Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) coming from coconut-growing families received scholarships under the Scholarship Program for Coconut Farmers and their Families (CoScho), a joint initiative of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). In a ceremony held on February 21 at the DOrSU Graduate School Library, the scholars, together with their parents and guardians, officially signed their scholarship contract.
CoScho, one of several projects under the Coconut Farmers Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), stemming from Republic Act 11524 that created the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund, aims to provide accessible educational opportunities to qualified and deserving coconut farmers and their families registered under the National Coconut Farmers Registry System (NCFRS). The program extends its support to undergraduate students pursuing degrees in agriculture, agricultural engineering, agribusiness management, agricultural economics, and other programs identified by the PCA, thereby nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders and innovators.
Each CoScho scholar is entitled to a semesterly stipend of PHP 40,000, along with one-time grants for a laptop allowance worth PHP 30,000, thesis assistance amounting to PHP 75,000, and an additional allowance of PHP 10,000 for attending seminars and fora. This financial assistance will remain available until the scholars successfully complete their respective undergraduate degrees.
During the ceremony, University President Dr. Roy G. Ponce delivered an inspiring message, emphasizing the scholars’ responsibility to uphold accountability and dedication in their academic pursuits. He congratulated and expressed profound gratitude to the parents and guardians for their unwavering support to the students. Dr. Ponce also hinted at the anticipation of another round of scholarships, underscoring the university’s commitment to ensuring the accessibility of quality tertiary education to all.
Dr. Cheryll L. Bautista, Vice President for Academic Affairs, urged the scholars to remain mindful of the available resources and make the most of the opportunities presented to them. Furthermore, Dr. Evangeline R. Rivera, Director for Student Services, conveyed sincere gratitude to PCA and CHEd for their visionary leadership in spearheading the implementation of the scholarship program. She emphasized the transformative impact of CoScho in the lives of the scholars as well as to their families.
The ceremony was attended by dedicated scholarship coordinators and personnel from the DOrSU’s Financial Aids and Scholarship Grants Office, led by Ms. Candy J. Martinez. Meanwhile, Ms. Lourdes Melody J. Villanueva, Education Program Specialist and STuFAPs Focal from CHED Regional Office XI and her technical staff virtually participated in the event.
In its continued commitment to student welfare, DOrSU endeavors to explore further scholarship opportunities, ensuring that all students have the support they need to achieve their academic and personal aspirations.
