John Swire & Sons (JS&S) PNG Limited and owner of Swire Shipping Limited, yesterday officially launched two new scholarships for Papua New Guinean students: Swire University Scholarships and Taikoo College Scholarships. The fully funded scholarships will enable Papua New Guinean students to access financial support for vocational and tertiary studies for next year’s academic year, 2024. This is part of Swire’s Higher Education Scholarship Program aimed to support those pursuing their studies. Steamships Trading Company Limited, whose biggest investor is John Swire & Sons (JS&S), will now be administering the scholarship program on behalf of Swire. The new Swire Scholarships will on the other hand, also complement the Steamships’ Community Grants Program which supports early childhood learning and primary schools. The fully funded scholarship will enable fifteen PNG students to access financial support for both vocational training and tertiary studies. The total scholarship value is at K275, 000 per annum and is anticipated that this program runs indefinitely. Managing Director of Steamships, Rupert Bray stated that ten fully funded scholarships are for the tertiary students including, Divine Word, University of Technology, University of Papua New Guinea and Pacific Adventist University and five scholarships are for vocational training institute through IEA Tafe College. “All scholars will benefit from having their full tuition fees paid plus cost of accommodation and airfares.” “So, what we want to be able to do is to take away some of the challenges that PNG families face in funding tertiary education as it is very difficult to find the funds these days.” “The scholarships enable people to access opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills and confidence, empowering them to fulfil their potential.” “The long-term impact of this program will be to provide trained and skilled individuals who will help meet the pressing shortage of qualified graduates and is also anticipated that most of the graduating scholars will be offered employment within the Steamships Group or Swire Shipping PNG.” Meanwhile, Community Engagement Manager of Steamships Trading Company Limited, Hane Toua, plays a key role in organizing the scholarship program. She stated that upon applying for a scholarship, requirements must be met, and all details are included online. Toua also explained that once an applicant is successful upon receiving a scholarship, terms and conditions will apply and that the standard must remain through till the completion of one’s education. “The expectation that we have is for the students to fully commit to their studies and do well as we are investing a lot in them.” “This will add value to what we give and so we will support to ensure that they graduate.” Details about the eligibility criteria and application process can be accessed on the respective application forms which are available online on; Swire University Scholarship Application Form 2023 and Taikoo College Scholarship Application Form 2023.