Forty-four outstanding youth scholars recently completed the Iskolar ni Juan (INJ) Tech-Voc Scholarship Program by the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF). The program’s industry-standard curriculum ensures scholars are academically proficient and ready for today’s evolving industries. Through GBF and Universal Robina Corporation (URC), the Iskolar ni Juan Tech-Voc Scholarship program provides education-to-employment opportunities to students.

Since 2014, INJ Tech-Voc Scholarship Program has been helping high school graduates and out-of-school youth. To date, 508 scholars have successfully finished the program and 58 are currently in training at the GBF Technical Training Center in Calamba City, Laguna.

Engr. Raymund Ganotice, GBF Technical Training Center School Director, proudly led the graduation ceremony and welcomed the graduates from INJ batches 15B and 16. They completed GBF’s Mechatronics Servicing NCII course and obtained 100% batch passing rate in TESDA’s NCII assessment. “Each of you has faced unique challenges and overcome obstacles to arrive at this moment – the culmination of countless hours of study, lab and practical exercises, OJT, and self-discovery,” he said. “We celebrate not only the knowledge you have acquired but also the resilience and determination that have become an integral part of your character.”

Jesha Eve Gregorio, an outstanding Iskolar ni Juan from Batch 15B, expressed her gratitude on behalf of the graduates. Despite attaining a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, she opted for the scholarship program to enhance her technical skills and secure stable employment. She thanked GBF and URC for the support especially during board exam preparations that coincided with her on-the-job training. Now, Engineer Jesha Gregorio currently works as an instrumentation technician at URC Cebu and is now a licensed electrical engineer.

Another success story is Harold Ferraren Mutia who acknowledged the foundation for reigniting his capacity to dream. “Nakatulong ang Iskolar ni Juan na gisingin ang natutulog kong pangarap na noon ay aking kinalimutan ngunit ngayon ay pinagsisikapan,” he said. Originally from Mindanao, Harold overcame a lot of challenges and worked in Luzon to support his family. Despite the hardships, he remained to committed to his education and shined as a natural leader in school. Introduced to the Iskolar ni Juan program by his teacher, Harold is grateful for the transformative opportunity. Now a graduate, he is grateful to pursue studies, undergo training, and secure employment at URC El Salvador in Misamis Oriental.

Mr. Arnel Nunez, URC’s Director of Corporate Maintenance, urged the graduates to embody the spirit of the Gokongwei legacy. “As technical scholars, you are equipped not only to navigate the complexities of your chosen field but to lead, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society,” Mr. Nunez shared. “Remember that success is not just an individual accomplishment but the result of a community coming together to support and inspire one another,” he added.

In 2024, GBF plans to expand partnerships for the Iskolar ni Juan Program, seeking sponsors to provide subsidies and additional job opportunities. As part of these collaborations, the GBF Technical Training Center will craft a curriculum aligned with industry needs, technology, and TESDA standards.

The Iskolar ni Juan program will open its application for a new batch of scholars in January 2024. Senior high school graduates are invited to apply.

NJ scholars enjoy fully subsidized technical training, that includes allowances aside from free tuition, dormitory stay, school supplies, and NCII assessment fees.

Gokongwei Brothers Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to making education accessible, creating the path for countless more stories of triumph and inspiration like Harold Mutia and Engr. Jesha Gregorio.