The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) opened a new doorway to international academic opportunities for its students and graduates by hosting a hybrid information session on the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Program 2026 at the Wright Hall, Mini Convention Center, NEUST Sumacab Campus, on March 2, 2026.
The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Program is a fully funded grant offered by the Government of New Zealand to students from developing countries for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. It is administered by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to support prosperity, security, and sustainable growth in partner countries.
In a message delivered during the session, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo said the scholarship provides graduates with opportunities for advanced studies abroad and opens avenues for sustainable partnerships through similar international programs while encouraging students and alumni to explore and participate in the initiative.
Meanwhile, Dr. Olive Chester Antonio, Dean of the College of Public Administration and Disaster Management, said that as a university committed to innovation, public service, and global competitiveness, NEUST recognizes that international academic engagement is no longer optional but essential.
Dr. Antonio added that opportunities of such magnitude require more than credentials, emphasizing the need for courage, intellectual maturity, and a commitment to return and contribute to the country.
The orientation was led by Dyan Mabunga, International Development Cooperation Manager of the New Zealand Embassy–Manila, who presented the program’s eligibility requirements, priority fields of study, application process, and its impact on scholars and their home institutions.
According to Mabunga, the scholarship aims to reach applicants from underrepresented communities and provinces across the Philippines, particularly those who have demonstrated sustained service in areas such as Indigenous leadership, climate action, grassroots organizing, peacebuilding, education, local governance, and inclusive economic development.
The program seeks not only academic excellence but also the development of leaders who remain grounded in and committed to their communities, and all scholars are required to return to the Philippines after completing their studies and render at least two years of service in priority development sectors.
The application period opened on March 1, 2026, and will close at midday on March 31, 2026, based on New Zealand standard time.
NEUST Alumni Regent Dr. Feliciano Bolisay Jr. concluded the orientation by expressing hope that university alumni would qualify for the scholarship and by affirming the institution’s intent to strengthen its partnership with the New Zealand Embassy–Manila.
Also in attendance were Dr. Marilou Pascual, Director of the University Training Department; Dr. Filip Carlo Bolisay, Director of the Alumni and Placement Office; Dr. Vilma Ramos, Head of the Regional Center for Indigenous Peoples Education; Dr. Rosemarie Casimiro, Program Chair of Public Administration; Dr. Lady Anne Murillo of PAG-ASA NEUST; CPADM faculty members; and a representative from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.
Interested applicants may visit https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/ and https://www.nzscholarships.govt.nz/check-eligibility-criteria/ for more information and to review the eligibility criteria.
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