CHED Holds Medical Scholarship Return Service Program Consultative Meeting on May 20, 2024, 10:00 am at PSU Hostel, Main Campus
The Commission on Higher Education Regional Office (CHEDRO) MIMAROPA led by Dr. Jimmy G. Catanes, Director IV, with Prof. Edna Imelda F. Legazpi, Director, CHED-OSDS and Focal Person on CHED-GAD, and Ms. Lesele O. Condeza, Education Supervisor II, convened a consultative meeting to discuss the updates on Medical Scholarship Return Service (MSRS) Program. The program aims to address the lack of medical professionals in underserved communities by providing financial assistance to deserving students in exchange for a commitment to serve in designated areas after graduation.
The meeting brought together key officials from CHEDRO, PalawanSU headed by Dr. Ramon M. Docto, University President, Dr. Maila N. Lucero, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Venzon L. Limpiada, Vice President for Finance and Administration, Dr. Carlos Alfonso C. Salvador, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services, other officials, directors, and staff, Dr. Ronnie Mayo, Associate Dean, together with the other distinguished doctors and professors, Dr. Karen A. Acosta, Dr. Paul S. Castillo, and Dr. Christine Lorraine Chua, and a group of fifteen (15) pioneer medical students of the PalawanSU School of Medicine, fostering a productive exchange of ideas. Dr. Catanes emphasized the program’s significance in strengthening the healthcare workforce in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. The discussion focused on the program implementation and student support, disbursement of scholarship funds, and support services available to scholars during their studies.
The presence of medical students at the meeting proved invaluable. Their experience and insights into the challenges and aspirations of future doctors provided crucial insights for refining the program’s structure and ensuring that it effectively addresses their needs and paves way for a successful return service experience.
By creating a space for open communication between the CHED officials and medical students, this consultative meeting serves as a positive step towards a well-designed MSRS Program which has the potential to significantly improve access to healthcare in underserved communities across the country.
The Institutional Student Programs and Services (ISPS) under the Student Affairs and Services Division is the office in-charge of the activities.
