BACOLOD City – A total of 515 Negrense students formally joined the Negros Occidental Scholarship Program (NOSP) after signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the provincial government on June 16, during a ceremonial event held at L’Fisher Hotel in this city.
The signing was led by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, alongside the incoming scholars who will now be part of the 1,350 total beneficiaries of the provincial scholarship program for school year 2025–2026.
The scholars are enrolled in various schools and universities across the province and belong to different scholarship categories, including PAGKAON Scholarship Grant, District Educational Scholarship, Degree Completion Scholarship, Indigenous Peoples’ Scholarship, Negros Occidental Provincial Medical and Nursing Scholarship – Nursing, NOPMANS Medicine, Provincial Educational Assistance to Capitol Employees, Best of Negros, Scholarship for Children of Non-Returning OFWs, Midwifery Scholarship, Degree Completion Scholarship for OFWs, Scholarship for Children of Solo Parents, and Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Gov. Lacson reaffirmed the province’s commitment to bridging educational gaps and addressing inequalities through NOSP.
“Every qualified Negrense deserves the opportunity to pursue education, regardless of their circumstances,” he said.
He encouraged the scholars to be responsible, excel in their studies, and uphold integrity, while also reminding them to give back to their families, communities, and the province.
“Always remember that as you pursue your dreams, you are also setting the path for other young Negrenses who will follow in your footsteps,” Gov. Lacson added.
Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, who witnessed the signing, advised the scholars to persevere despite challenges and to visualize the future they want for themselves. He stressed that the provincial government continues to allocate increased funding annually to help students achieve their academic and career goals.
“Be efficient, acquire knowledge and skills, live with the right values and attitude, and always seek guidance from God,” Diaz urged.
The MOA signing was facilitated by the NOSP, headed by Karen Dinsay. All scholarship recipients underwent a rigorous screening process, including examinations and interviews.
Qualified scholars will receive free tuition and miscellaneous fees, book and uniform allowances, and other forms of academic assistance throughout their studies./PN
