Tzu Chi Foundation Awards Scholarships to UDM Students: Strengthening Partnerships to End the Cycle of Poverty

On January 23, 2025, the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation took a meaningful step toward ending the cycle of poverty in the Philippines by awarding scholarships to 22 indigent but deserving students from the Universidad de Manila (UDM). The event, held at the UDM campus, symbolized hope, compassion, and the transformative power of education.

These scholarship recipients, recognized for their academic excellence, resilience, and commitment to self-improvement, represent the next generation of nation-builders. The program not only offers financial assistance but also instills in students the values of gratitude, perseverance, and social responsibility—empowering them to pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

UDM President Dr. Ma. Felma Carlos-Tria expressed gratitude to the Tzu Chi Foundation for its unwavering support in promoting education as a tool for empowerment and social transformation. The initiative exemplifies Sustainable Development Goal 17 – Partnerships for the Goals, showcasing how collaboration between academic institutions and humanitarian organizations can create long-term, sustainable impact.

Collaboration for SDG Best Practice

Through international collaboration and research, both the Tzu Chi Foundation and Universidad de Manila continue to review comparative approaches and develop international best practices in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly in the areas of poverty reduction, quality education, and equitable access to opportunities. This partnership highlights the power of collective action and data-driven collaboration in creating meaningful change across communities.

By nurturing educational opportunities for underprivileged students, the Tzu Chi Foundation–UDM partnership stands as a model of compassion-driven and SDG-aligned collaboration, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.