The Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) is a prestigious education grant offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). It’s designed to provide financial assistance to eligible dependents of active OWWA members who are Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). This is a type of financial education scholarship is aimed at supporting the top 400 national qualifiers of the DOST exam and it represents OWWA’s commitment to uplifting the educational opportunities of OFW families. Beneficiaries can look forward to substantial support that can cover tuition fees and other school-related expenses, ultimately aiding in the pursuit of their academic dreams.
Targeted beneficiaries of the EDSP are incoming freshmen who have proven their academic excellence as well as currently enrolled college students who maintain a high-grade point average. Specifically, these must be children or siblings of an active OWWA member, meeting age and grade criteria set forth by the program. With the EDSP, qualified students can expect to receive up to 60,000 Philippine pesos per academic year, which bolsters their capacity to attain higher education without the burden of financial constraints. Moreover, the program encompasses not just financial aid but also equips scholars with orientation and guidance to help them navigate their academic journey efficiently.
Significance of the Program
The EDSP holds immense significance for several reasons:
- Uplifting Lives: It directly addresses the financial challenges faced by OFW families, enabling their children to pursue higher education and break the cycle of poverty.
- Investing in the Future: By nurturing young talents, the program invests in the future of the Philippines, equipping future generations with skills and knowledge to drive national development.
- Honoring OFW Sacrifice: It serves as a tangible expression of gratitude for the sacrifices made by OFWs, ensuring their families have access to opportunities for advancement.
Legal Basis
The EDSP finds its legal basis in Republic Act No. 10022, also known as the “Amended Gullas Law of 2008.” This law mandates the agency to provide various welfare and development programs for the benefit of OFWs and their families, including scholarship programs.
Benefits of the EDSP
The program offers a host of benefits:
- Financial Assistance: Covers tuition fees, books, allowance, and other school-related expenses up to Php 60,000 per year.
- Reduced Burden: Alleviates financial pressure on OFW families, allowing them to focus on their work and well-being.
- Empowering Education: Opens doors to quality higher education, equipping recipients with valuable skills and knowledge.
- Brighter Future: Paves the way for better career opportunities and improved living standards for beneficiaries and their families.
Eligibility and Qualifications
To be eligible for the EDSP, applicants must:
Incoming Senior High School (Grade 12):
- Be a child or sibling of an active member
- Have at least 80% General Weighted Average (GWA)
- Pass the DOST national qualifying exam and be in the top 400 passers nationwide
Incoming Freshmen (1st year college):
- Be a child or sibling of an active member
- Be single and not more than 21 years old
- Have at least 80% GWA or equivalent
- Be among the top 400 qualifiers of the DOST national qualifying exam
Currently Enrolled (2nd year to 5th year):
- Be a child or sibling of an active member
- Be not more than 30 years old
- Have at least 85% GWA or equivalent in all subjects
Additional Criteria:
- Applicant must not be a recipient of any other OWWA or scholarship grant.
- The member’s monthly salary must be not more than US $600.00.
Application Requirements
The application process requires the following documents:
- Scholarship Application Form
- OWWA Membership Record of OFW member
- 2 I.D. pictures with name tags
- Valid I.D.s of applicant and OFW member
- Proof of relationship to OWWA member (birth certificate, cenomar)
- School records (Form 137/138/Transcript of Records)
- DOST-OWWA qualifying exam notice (for incoming freshmen)
- Other special requirements (may be waived due to pandemic)
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for EDSP Scholarship from OWWA
- Visit the OWWA Regional Welfare Office covering the OFW’s permanent address.
- Obtain a queuing number and present required documents.
- Get the Notice of Award and Scholarship Orientation schedule.
- Attend the Orientation and notarize the Scholarship Agreement.
Important Note: Deadlines and specific requirements may vary depending on the region. Contact your local OWWA office for the latest information.
Should you or anyone you know be interested in applying for this grant, you may refer to the following channels for updates:
1. OWWA Website:
The official OWWA website regularly publishes announcements about scholarship programs, including the EDSP. Check the “Scholarship Programs” section for the latest information on application deadlines and requirements.
- OWWA Regional Welfare Offices:
Each regional office manages the scholarship applications for their respective area. Contact your local office directly to inquire about the application cycle for the EDSP in your region.
- Social Media:
Follow the agency’s official social media pages (Facebook, Twitter) for real-time updates on their programs, including announcements about upcoming educational grant application periods.
- News and Announcements:
Keep an eye on news articles and announcements from OWWA or related government agencies for any updates regarding the EDSP application cycle.
Success Stories / Recent Updates
OWWA MIMAROPA Awards EDSP Scholar with Cheque for Pursuing Engineering Dream
John Mico Tagonan, a MIMAROPA EDSP Scholar from Palawan, received his cheque from the agency on February 5, 2024. Since childhood, he has aspired to become an engineer, and his father, who works in the UAE, recognized his determination and wanted to support Mico in achieving his dream. Mico aims to repay his father’s sacrifices through his hard work and dedication in his chosen field.
Kent Harriz Gabinete, a MIMAROPA EDSP Scholar from Romblon, received his cheque from the agency on February 5, 2024. Kent worked hard in his Aeronautics course to support his family, who have taken care of him since he was young. He aims to help his seafarer father and finally have the opportunity to rest and be with his loved ones.
In Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, the Education and Training Unit of OWWA RWO2 awarded scholarships to deserving individuals. These include 7 grants under the OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (ODSP) amounting to Php 70,000.00, 1 recipient of the EDSP receiving Php 30,000.00 for 1 semester, and 2 ELAP Education scholars with a total amount of Php 13,000.00. The total grant amount awarded reached Php 113,000.00. Additionally, 4 Notice of Award certificates were given to eligible beneficiaries of the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP).
Video: OWWA BENEFITS EDSP SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: 60,000 PESOS PER SCHOOL YEAR
The OWWA Benefits Scholarship Program offers the EDSP Scholarship for dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). This program provides educational opportunities for OFW dependents, ensuring access to quality education and a brighter future. Discover the benefits and opportunities available through the EDSP Scholarship Program for OFW families.
Conclusion
The Education for Development Scholarship Program is a shining example of how government initiatives can empower individuals and communities. By providing access to quality education, the EDSP not only transforms lives but also paves the way for a brighter future for Filipino families and the nation as a whole. If you are a dependent of an OFW and aspire to pursue higher education, the EDSP is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss.