THE TARLAC State University is hosting two scholars under the Complementary Pathways program of the government.

The program, supported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, allows refugees to stay in a third country and address their international protection needs.

TSU was the first state university in the country to sign a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Justice through the Refugees and Stateless Persons Protection Unit and UNHCR to participate in the program.

The scholars are enrolled in their desired programs and are given access to healthcare and essential services, as well as free on-campus accommodation.

They will stay at TSU for four years or until they finish their degrees and may choose to remain in the Philippines to pursue their careers.

TSU School of Law dean Dr. Jose Dela Rama Jr. awarded each scholar P10,000 to help with their expenses.

The scholars are also funded by philanthropists who hope the program “will inspire other countries in the region to adopt similar initiatives for deserving refugee scholars.”