The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program was a collaborative initiative launched in 2017 by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union (EU) to foster academic excellence, cultural exchange, and regional integration. This scholarship program provided a unique opportunity for talented Southeast Asian students to pursue higher education at prestigious universities across Europe.
What Was the ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program?
The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program offered fully funded scholarships to students from ASEAN member states to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees in various fields of study at European universities. The program aimed to:
- Promote academic collaboration and exchange between ASEAN and the EU.
- Strengthen human resource capacity in ASEAN through knowledge and skills development.
- Contribute to sustainable development in ASEAN by supporting research and innovation.
- Foster intercultural understanding and dialogue between ASEAN and the EU.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
To be eligible for the ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program, applicants had to meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen of an ASEAN member state.
- Academic Excellence: Possess a strong academic record with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
- Motivation and Commitment: Demonstrate a strong motivation to study in Europe and contribute to the development of ASEAN.
Benefits of the ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship
The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship provided a comprehensive package of benefits to selected scholars, including:
- Full tuition fees: Coverage of all tuition fees for the duration of the program.
- Living allowance: Monthly stipend to cover living expenses in Europe.
- Travel expenses: Round-trip airfare to and from Europe.
- Health insurance: Coverage for health insurance during the program.
- Visa and residence permit: Assistance with visa application and residence permit procedures.
- Cultural and language programs: Opportunities to participate in cultural and language programs to enhance the scholars’ experience in Europe.
Applying for the ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship
The application process for the ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship involved several steps:
- Online application: Applicants were required to submit their applications online through the designated platform.
- Selection process: Applications were reviewed by a selection committee based on academic merit, language proficiency, motivation, and potential for future contribution.
- Interview stage: Shortlisted candidates were invited to participate in interviews to assess their suitability for the program.
- Final selection: The selection committee finalized the list of scholarship recipients based on the overall assessment.
Impact of the ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program
The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program has had a significant impact on Southeast Asian students and the region as a whole. It has:
- Empowered talented individuals: By providing access to high-quality education in Europe, the program empowered talented Southeast Asian students to pursue their academic aspirations.
- Enhanced regional integration: The program fostered collaboration and exchange between ASEAN and the EU, contributing to the integration of the region into the global community.
- Developed human capital: By supporting the development of skills and knowledge in various fields, the program contributed to the strengthening of human capital in ASEAN.
- Promoted intercultural understanding: Through the exchange of cultures and perspectives, the program fostered intercultural understanding and dialogue between ASEAN and the EU.
Reflections from a Former Scholar: Dr. Maria Fernandez, PhD
“The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program provided me with an invaluable opportunity to pursue my doctoral studies at a leading university in Germany. The program not only facilitated my academic journey but also broadened my horizons by immersing me in a new culture and fostering international collaboration. The knowledge and skills I gained during my time in Europe have equipped me to contribute effectively to the development of my home country and the ASEAN region.”
Conclusion
The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program was a successful initiative that provided a platform for Southeast Asian students to excel in their academic pursuits and contribute to the progress of their region. The program’s legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations to pursue higher education and contribute to the development of ASEAN.
FAQ
1. What were the specific fields of study covered by the scholarship program?
The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program covered a wide range of fields, including but not limited to engineering, science, technology, business, social sciences, and humanities.
2. How was the scholarship program funded?
The ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship Program was funded through a joint initiative between the ASEAN Secretariat and the European Commission.
3. How many scholarships were awarded each year?
The number of scholarships awarded each year varied depending on the availability of funds and the number of eligible applications.
4. Were there any specific criteria for selecting scholarship recipients?
Yes, the selection process was based on academic merit, language proficiency, motivation, and potential for future contribution.
5. How did the program contribute to the development of ASEAN?
The program contributed to the development of ASEAN by enhancing human resource capacity, promoting regional integration, and fostering intercultural understanding.
6. What is the future of scholarship programs like the ASEAN & EU Share Scholarship?
The future of such scholarship programs remains bright, as they are crucial for fostering academic excellence, cultural exchange, and regional integration. Similar initiatives are expected to be launched in the future to support talented students and contribute to the development of Southeast Asia and other regions.
7. What is the role of “ASEAN Media” in promoting scholarship programs?
“Asean Media” plays a crucial role in promoting scholarship programs by providing information, insights, and resources to students, researchers, and institutions. We aim to connect the ASEAN community with opportunities for academic growth and collaboration.
8. How can I stay updated on future scholarship programs?
You can stay updated on future scholarship programs by subscribing to our newsletter, following our social media accounts, and visiting our website regularly.