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Tzu Chi gives TESDA scholarships
The foundation said it hopes the scholars will use their learned skills to serve others, give back to their communities, and make a positive impact on society.
Tzu Chi Philippines Foundation has set another milestone as its Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus (BTCC) in Manila kicked off its Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-accredited training program by awarding scholarships to the first batch of 44 trainees last 1 September.
Tzu Chi officials handed the scholarship certificates for the elderly caregiving course to 25 beneficiaries and 19 others for the welding training.
The foundation said it hopes the scholars will use their learned skills to serve others, give back to their communities, and make a positive impact on society.
“Today marks the beginning of a new journey — a journey of learning, growth, responsibility and hope,” said Rosa So, head volunteer for Tzu Chi’s Educational and Medical Assistance Programs, according to the humanitarian organization. “To our new scholars in the Caregiving (Elderly) and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NCII courses, congratulations! You have been chosen and given an opportunity to acquire skills that can open doors to employment and, more importantly, allow you to become someone who can make a difference in the lives of others.”
One of the scholars, Arnulfo Salacop, 27 and a resident of Nueva Ecija, thanked Tzu Chi on behalf of his family and the whole batch of scholars who will earn TESDA National Certification II at the end of their successful training.
“Thank you very much, Tzu Chi. You have given us the chance for a change in our lives. I am so grateful that I have been given this chance to be a caregiver. Thank you for coming into my life,” Salacop said.
“I want to make the most of this opportunity, that’s why I will do my best to learn, to practice, and to improve every day. I hope that it’s not only I who will be given this opportunity, but countless individuals who also aspire to learn skills and get a chance to start,” Ma. Elena Soguilon, one of the SMAW scholar, said.
Hardship delayed the Tzu Chi scholars’ education and the foundation’s scholarship program provides them the opportunity to resume their quest for a good career.