SOME 125 college students who are currently enrolled in various universities and colleges in Pampanga on Saturday, September 08, received almost P1.5-million assistance from Third District Representative Aurelio Gonzales, Jr.
The distribution of educational assistance was held at Gonzales' district office in Barangay Sindalan here, and was attended by parents of the student beneficiaries.
"You as students can contribute to development by studying hard and fulfilling your careers," Gonzales said.
He stressed that scholars who graduate can contribute what they have learned by being productive members of the country's workforce.
Gonzales also assured scholars that the "Iskolar ng Dong" program, which now has 7,000 scholars, will continue to support more students needing assistance.
"We will be opening more slots subject to available funds. Education should be made accessible to more indigent students. Ours is more of an assistance program but we hope that we could help in reducing the cost of education for these beneficiaries," Gonzales said.
The lawmaker's scholarship program is the only one of its kind and scale in the province that takes in scholars without having to maintain a specific grade requirement.
"Everyone deserves the chance to have a decent education. All I ask from them is to finish their studies and not incur failing marks," Gonzales said.
The "Iskolar ng Dong" program covers elementary, pre-school, college, high school and technical-vocational programs.
