Overview:
Twenty Palauan students have been awarded Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) scholarships this year, marking one of the strongest turnouts in recent years as more than 60 students applied for opportunities to study in Taiwan. One additional student received a Taiwan ICDF scholarship.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
Koror, Palau – Taiwan Embassy awards 20 MOFA scholarships to Palauan students, with strong turnout this year
The Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has awarded 20 Taiwan MOFA scholarships to Palauan students this year, while also granting one Taiwan ICDF scholarship, as more students applied than in previous years.
According to Harvey Lo Taiwan Embassy’s Third Secretary, this year’s scholarship program received more than 60 applications, reflecting strong interest among Palauan students seeking to study in Taiwan. Embassy officials said the number of available slots also increased compared to last year, as part of Taiwan government’s commitment under its Prosperity Project for Diplomatic Allies program.
The 20 MOFA scholarship recipients will all attend language school first before moving on to university studies. Embassy officials said none of the students will go directly to university at this stage.
The MOFA scholarship recipients for undergraduate studies are:
Aron Pedro, Martha Toyu Ubedei, Kimie-Maki Kelau Singeo, Lianna Ramarui, Basiou Willibalt Demei, Dilsils Catherine Francisco, Haylie Ungilchais Mariur, Kiora Didil Rafael, Taira Balii Tellei Kishigawa, Trevor Tetsuo Rechuldak Augsut, Jalen Asito, Kel-Ty Marsh Henio, Starsky Junior Sebastian Shorai Masang, Asami Jordan Ngirmidol, Ebiklou Mau’Hina Ngiraswei, Lyrish Ngerdelungch Takeshi, Denglei Hazel Lukas, Sofia Dirramekar Denita Keizi, Kayo Iwetchong Edward, and Akeela Goofel Vincent.
Ayana Ramarui, a master’s degree student also received a Taiwan ICDF scholarship.
The embassy said the Taiwan ICDF Scholarship, the MOFA Scholarship for Public Health, and the Central Police University Scholarship were all offered this year, but interest varied. While the ICDF scholarship received one application, the Public Health and Central Police University scholarships received none. Embassy officials encouraged students to consider applying for those opportunities in the future.
Last week Wednesday, newly appointed Palau Ambassador to Taiwan Gaafar Ucherbelau hosted a dinner for the scholarship recipients, including some current Palauan students in Taiwan who are home for the summer break.
The departure date for the new scholarship recipients is still being confirmed, but they are currently expected to leave for Taiwan around August 29.