A new venture, thanks to a generous legacy from a supporter, has been the establishment of a scholarship fund. This is an initiative to provide financial assistance to deserving students from slum and underprivileged backgrounds to enable them to pursue a higher level of education after completing school.  It may also allow some students without sponsorship to attend senior secondary school for grades 11 and 12.

The candidates were required to submit an essay detailing why they believe they deserve a scholarship and to indicate their future career plans. Reports were gathered from previous schools and the students were asked to submit their marks in the State Board Exams. Those who meet Tong-Len’s criteria were invited to sit a scholarship exam which addressed three key areas:

  1. Secular ethics (moral values)
  2. Critical thinking and problem solving
  3. General knowledge and language skills

This year 12 applicants were invited to sit the scholarship exam, including 4 hostel students. The exam took place on 11th June at the Tong-Len school.   Scholarships were awarded to four hostel students and to two girls from poor families locally who cannot afford to advance their children’s education.  Their scholarships will cover their tuition fees for the length of the course for which they have been enrolled.  Payment will be made annually to the university or college and be conditional on satisfactory performance reports.  The family and sponsors will be responsible for their living expenses.