ASEAN school network offers Master's degree scholarships for PWDs

MANILA, Philippines — The ASEAN University Network (AUN) has opened applications for scholarships for qualified persons with disabilities (PWDs) from the Philippines and other ASEAN countries to pursue a Master's degree in public policy or related fields.

The scholarship opportunity, shared by the Philippines' National Council on Disability Affairs on social media last May 13, invites PWDs with "exceptional academic & leadership" backgrounds to submit their application. 

Scholars can pursue their Master's degree at any AUN member university, while existing Master's degree students may also apply.

The scholarship is housed under the Disability and Public Policy area of the AUN (AUN-DPPNet), which aims to "build a cadre of disability experts and leaders who will contribute to the vision of an ASEAN region that is inclusive, barrier-free and rights-based." 

The program, which is based in the University of Malaya in Malaysia, aims to produce graduates "who will give impact to the policies that directly make a mark on persons with disabilities throughout ASEAN and around the world."

According to the AUN-DPPNet's poster, these are the benefits promised to scholars: 

• Tuition fee & placement
• Monthly stipend of $700 / month
• One-time $220 book allowance 
• Flight ticket
• Sign language interpreter
• Personal and technology assistance
• Conference allowance

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following qualifications:

• Must be an ASEAN national
• Completed a bachelor's degree with "excellent academic standing"
• Certified person with disability
• Secured Master's degree admission at any AUN member university 

The application form can be downloaded through the website of AUN-DPPNet at https://aun-dpp.um.edu.my/fellowship-application. 

A filled-out application form must be submitted along with the following documents:

• A copy of the admission letter from the university
• Attested copies of all transcripts & testimonials
• CV or resume
• 600-word-essay describing the applicant's work experience
• A letter of recommendation from the applicant's employer / institution, directly addressed to AUN-DPPNet

The deadline for applications is on July 31, 2024.

A full list of all AUN member countries can be accessed through this website: https://www.aunsec.org/discover-aun/membership.