By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau — The Palau National Communications Corporation (PNCC) continues to support young Palauan students’ career ambitions through its scholarship program for Palau Community College (PCC) students, launched in 2020. At an event on Friday, October 25, 2024, at PCC’s Assembly Hall, PNCC highlighted the scholarship’s impact on students entering the workforce and enhancing Palau’s labor market.
The scholarship program, established under a Memorandum of Understanding between then-PNCC CEO Leo Ben Teriong and PCC President Dr. Patrick Tellei, is available to Palauan students pursuing degrees in fields such as Auto Mechanics Technology, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, Business Accounting, Construction Technology, General Electronics, Electrical Technology, Infrastructure Technology, Small Engine Technology, Tourism, and Office Administration.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be full-time students enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester,
- Hold a minimum GPA of 2.5, and
- Complete at least 32 credit hours.
Since its inception, six students have benefited from the program, with placements including a role at PNCC’s IT division, two positions in private Palauan companies, and three students now studying abroad.
“The goal of this scholarship is to address PNCC’s workforce needs, but we also see it as a benefit for students and other employers in Palau,” PNCC’s Heflin Bai shared.
Beyond tuition assistance, the program includes a three-month paid internship at PNCC, providing students with valuable hands-on experience and a $500 stipend each semester. If positions are available, PNCC may hire interns upon completion of the program, otherwise, the skills gained through the scholarship often help them secure jobs with other local employers.
Scholarship Recipient: Dirraklei N. Andreas
Dirraklei N. Andreas, a Business Accounting major and scholarship recipient for 2024-2025, expressed gratitude for the opportunity: “Receiving the PNCC scholarship is incredibly rewarding, recognizing the hard work I’ve invested in my studies and opening new doors. The included internship provides hands-on experience, connections, and mentorship that will be instrumental as I pursue a career in business accounting.”
The PNCC-PCC scholarship continues to bridge education with employment, supporting Palauan students and contributing to the skilled workforce of Palau.