Batch 2018 SIKAT scholars during their CAREERS workshop and graduation at the EDC head office in OrtigasEnergy Development Corporation (EDC) is taking the next step for its SIKAT scholars’ regenerative future by commencing its career internship program abroad in partnership with Counselors for Immigration and International Studies (CIS).

SIKAT is EDC’s flagship education program that supports underprivileged but deserving students in the company’s host communities through financial assistance and mentoring.

CIS, the country’s leading trusted group of educational consultants, partners with host schools and educational sponsors in the US, Canada, Australia, Germany and New Zealand.

EDC corporate social responsibility and public relations head and assistant vice president Atty. Allan Barcena expressed his gratitude to CIS for supporting the company’s commitment of investing in quality education.

“We are thankful for this opportunity given by CIS to our SIKAT scholars and we are likewise thankful that we are able to partner with like-minded institutions that also believe in education and its importance in achieving a regenerative and decarbonized future,” Barcena said.

Renato Bueno, CIS president and CEO, said it has been his longtime goal to help Filipino students as a strong commitment to his belief that the next generation is the hope of the country.

“Sa inyo, mga SIKAT scholars and graduates, this MOA [memorandum of agreement] with EDC is an opportunity on your part to change your life, the lives of the people that you will meet every day,” said Bueno during the MOA signing held via Zoom.

Under the agreement, CIS will sponsor a qualified SIKAT scholar graduate for the pilot internship program abroad and support the scholar’s cost of living.

EDC will be responsible for screening the applications of its SIKAT scholar graduates and for the submission of the qualified candidate’s documents to CIS for processing. As well, it will provide financial assistance for the predeparture expenses of the candidate

Since its establishment in 2011, the scholarship program has so far admitted 202 scholars and produced 89 graduates. The program also supports K-12 students from over 100 schools in its partner and host communities nationwide who receive school supplies, tutorial assistance and early education support annually. (Story/Photos by: F. Ariola)