BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – INDIVIDUALS interested in learning Mandarin and experiencing life in Taiwan have only four more days to apply to the Taiwanese Embassy for a Huayu (Mandarin) Enrichment Scholarship (MOFA HES).
Though this is the first time that this scholarship is being offered to Kittitians and Nevisians, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) promises an extensive learning experience for accepted applicants. Only two applicants will be accepted this year and application closes at the end of this week (Jul. 17).
The awardees will be given a free round trip international ticket and a monthly stipend of US$ 775 to cover living expenses. The scholarship runs from September 1, 2010 through August 31 2011, with the duration of study ranging from six months to a year.
All applicants must be at least 18 years old and must possess a high school diploma, at minimum.
Speaking to SKNVibes, Third Secretary at the Embassy Roy Hsu said the Embassy is providing the opportunity for people not only to learn a language but also to grow a greater appreciation for the Taiwanese culture. He added that learning Mandarin is a step that could only be beneficial as it is growing in international popularity.
“I would like to emphasise that the major reason why my country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is inviting Kittitians and Nevisians to come and learn Mandarin is because it is the second most popular foreign language to be learned in recent years...second only to English.
“We believe that these applicants will be empowered with capabilities of the Mandarin language which can help people to explore their fields in the Asian countries, which play a very important role on the world stage.” Hsu said.
The Taiwan Embassy invites nationals to seize the opportunity and apply for the scholarship to get a better understanding and appreciation of Taiwan’s culture. All interested persons are asked to contact the Embassy at (869) 465 2421 for further information.
