THE Western Province Premier Billy Veo has announced a first scholarship to be offered under the province’s sister relations with China’s Fujian Province.
Premier Veo made the announcement on Monday at the Western Provincial Assembly Meeting held on Imagination Island.
“While the finer details are still to be worked out, I am pleased to announce that we have already received one scholarship offer for 2025,” he said.
The scholarship provides the opportunity for the successful candidate to undertake studies in any of these fields – agriculture, forestry and accounting/financial management
The Western Provincial Government (WPG), through its Promotions and Disciplinary Committee, is currently liaising with relevant Heads of Department (HOD) to identify a suitable candidate to take up the scholarship offer.
“This is the first scholarship of its kind and it is the government’s intention that if we are able to secure more scholarships for our undergraduates and even post-graduates. We will need to establish relevant systems and processes for student selection based on merit and other specific requirements,” Premier Veo explained.
Premier Veo expressed satisfaction with the scholarship opportunity, despite the specific sector sub-agreement is still being negotiated.
He emphasised the potential for more opportunities in other technical fields such as engineering, science and research technology and tourism under the WP-Fujian sister relations.
“We can also explore other potential sectors for scholarships, depending on demand and future collaborations,” he said.
In addition to the scholarship announcement, Premier Veo revealed that another high-level delegation from Fujian Province is expected to visit the Western Province in April/May.
The delegation’s four to five-day visit to the Western Province will include a tour of the Noro Township to observe local industries and assess potential investment sites and infrastructure developments.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
