The Northern Samar provincial government has welcomed 20 new scholars comprising the second batch of grantees under its Nursing Scholarship Program, officials announced Friday.

The provincial government reported that student-applicants from various municipalities were officially admitted to the program, receiving their Nursing Scholarship Certificates from Governor Harris Ongchuan during a ceremony on March 26.

In his message, Ongchuan reminded the scholars of their future roles in the public health sector.

“You will eventually be working in our public hospitals. Be a good example. Be compassionate and understanding to the plight of our patients. More than anything, we expect you to understand their pain and their need for tender care,” he said.

As part of the scholarship agreement, grantees are required to serve in public hospitals after completing their studies.

The governor also underscored the importance of competent health human resources in delivering quality healthcare services, noting these areas are as vital as adequate equipment and hospital facilities.

Vice Governor Clarence Dato encouraged the scholars to persevere, expressing confidence in their determination and resilience in passing the program’s stringent selection process.

Representing the NSP Board, Provincial Administrator Efren Sabong welcomed the students and their parents during the contract-signing ceremony, describing it as a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming licensed nurses.

Under the program, each scholar is entitled to a comprehensive package of benefits, including school fees, related learning expenses, a stipend, and allowances for uniforms and books amounting to more than PHP70,000 per semester.

With 31 scholars from the first batch last year and 20 new grantees in the second batch, the provincial government now supports a total of 51 nursing scholars under the program. (PNA)