RAFI's 103 Young Minds scholars finish studies

CEBU - The 103 scholars of the Young Minds Academy (YMA), sponsored by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), the other day graduated from their eight-month long studies starting last January.

The scholars, in conclusion of their schooling, also presented their project proposals for the communities.

Launched in 2006, the YMA is a youth citizenship program of the RAFI to develop young emerging leaders, aged 12 to 30.

The scholarship is granted on a team basis per category, which is classified into three, depending on the age brackets: Generation 1 (21-30 years old), Generation 2 (17-20 years old), and Generation 3 (12-16 years old).

This year, 21 teams of five members each were admitted to the program. The graduating batch’s proposals centered on public health, addressing issues on teenage pregnancy, reduction of child mortality, health protection, and health promotion through environmental preservation.

The best proposal for each category will be funded by the RAFI with financial incentives for project implementation. Also, each member of the team is given a certificate of recognition after having successfully completed the program and submitted the requirements of the proposal.

Eduardo Aboitiz, president of RAFI, said the project proposals are put forward to follow the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, which aims to answer problems on environment, health, education, governance, poverty, and social welfare.

Last year, the projects of the YMA scholars focused on the environment and the proponents have already made steps now for the implementation of their programs.

While YMA has closed the second season, it has opened its doors for applicants for the third season. The next batch of YMA scholars will be focusing their projects on education. — Cressida Paula G. Delmo/RAE (THE FREEMAN)