The Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines and Universidad de Manila (UDM) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on May 22, 2024 at the Buddhist Tzu Chi Campus in Sta. Mesa, Manila to provide financial support for underprivileged students.
“In a society where access to quality education is often hindered by financial constraints, this partnership is a beacon of hope,” said Dr. Ma. Felma Carlos-Tria, UDM president and chief academic and executive officer.
Tria expressed gratitude to the Tzu Chi Foundation for its generosity and belief in the transformative power of education.
UDM, described as a “school for the underprivileged,” faces a high dropout rate of up to 41 percent, primarily due to financial incapacity.
“Many students drop out to work, as they lack the means to attend school daily.” Tria said.
In response to incidents of students fainting from hunger, the university established a community pantry and soup kitchen, supported by volunteers from the UDM community.
The Tzu Chi Foundation’s commitment to addressing economic hardships among students inspired the expansion of its scholarship program and the formation of the partnership with UDM.
Its scholarship program provides students with monthly stipends and allowances for transportation, lodging, food, internet, books, uniforms and other school needs.
The foundation also offers character formation and skills training through monthly Humanity classes, which include lessons on Tzu Chi philosophy, essential life skills, financial literacy and mentorship.
Daniella Macogue, a former Tzu Chi scholar and current social worker for the Charity Department, shared her transformative experience.
Coming from a low-income household, she struggled in her first year of college but found relief and support through Tzu Chi’s scholarship program, graduating with Latin honors in 2023. She credited the foundation’s Humanity classes for molding her character and confidence.
Jhasmine Yecla, a graduating UDM student, also expressed gratitude for the impact of Tzu Chi’s support on her education and personal growth. As the daughter of a tricycle driver, financial constraints made her educational journey challenging until she received Tzu Chi’s scholarship, which provided comprehensive support.
Since 1994, Tzu Chi’s educational assistance program has granted over 13,000 scholarships to students at various educational levels. The foundation supports 1,294 scholars nationwide.
