College students taking agriculture and fishery-related courses received P20,000 scholarship checks for the first semester of 2026 during distribution rites held Monday afternoon, May 11, at the City Hall conference room.

The financial assistance forms part of the city government’s scholarship program under Ordinance No. 631, or the “Scholarship Grant for Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and Veterinary Medicine,” which provides qualified students with P40,000 in annual educational support. Beneficiaries came from Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) and Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST).

Mayor Khymer Olaso reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to strengthening support for students pursuing agriculture and fisheries education, emphasizing the importance of developing future professionals who can contribute to food security and local economic growth. He also urged the scholars to study diligently and make the most of the opportunity provided through public funds.

City Agriculturist Arben Magdugo presented the 74 qualified beneficiaries, consisting of 51 students from WMSU and 23 from ZSCMST. The scholars underwent screening and assessment by concerned city departments and must maintain the required academic standing, remain regular students, and comply with qualifications set under the ordinance to continue receiving the grant.

The scholarship recipients are enrolled in courses including BS Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, BS Agribusiness, BS Agriculture, and BS Agro-Forestry at WMSU, as well as BS Aquaculture and BS Fisheries at ZSCMST. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Jen Casido)