TO PREVENT university and college students from dropping out of school because of financial constraints, the Valenzuela City government has earmarked P1.5 million for an internship program that will enable them to earn and finish their studies.
Under the capacity-building initiative, at least 110 students will be assigned to day care and health centers, Bahay Kalinga and other facilities as employees of the city government. They will be working for a maximum period of one month per semester, earning P303 a day until they complete their courses.
“Their earnings should be able to help them pay for school expenses,” said Cecille Sebastian, program coordinator.
Only students enrolled in a “post-secondary education program” and whose combined annual family income is P20,000 can qualify for the program.
Applicants will be further screened by the City Social Welfare and Development Office and the Public Employment Services Office.
CSWDO officer in charge Dorothy Evangelista said the “stringent requirements” will help ensure that the students chosen for the program are serious about completing their college studies.
“The student can’t use the program just so he can get employment in a government office right away,” she said.