By Jim Lloyd Dongiapon
The New Zealand Embassy in Manila is encouraging Mindanaoans, particularly those who are indigenous peoples (IPs) and Moros, to apply for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships.
New Zealand Ambassador Peter Kell had made rounds in Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City to promote their government-sponsored scholarship grant.
Kell said in a press conference hosted by the Philippine Information Agency XI that the scholarship is fully funded by the New Zealand government and serves as part of their peace-building process support in the Philippines.
He added that urging IPs and Moros to apply for the scholarship is a means of advancing ethnic heritage, representation, and inclusivity—all of which they wholeheartedly support.
“This is not just about studying in New Zealand but also learning how New Zealand and New Zealanders see the world. We are trying to open New Zealand to all Mindanaoans, particularly those who are from indigenous and Moro communities,” he said.
In fact, this is demonstrated by the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.’s recent presentation of the Partnership Commendation Award to the New Zealand Embassy in recognition of their ongoing support for the chamber, particularly the “Uplifting of IP Women Project in Davao City.”
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship is open to Filipinos below 40 years old who wish to pursue their master’s and doctorate studies in New Zealand.
The ambassador also mentioned that the priority areas for postgraduate studies are climate change and the environment, renewable energy, food security and agriculture, indigenous studies, peace and conflict studies, disaster risk reduction, and cultural diversity.
Only 16 Filipino applicants will be accepted for the scholarship program.
Interested applicants may visit this website to apply:
Registration is until February 28, 12:00 p.m. New Zealand Time (7:00 a.m. Philippine Standard Time).