Breaking Barriers: Increased Financial Aid at Universidad De Manila Empowering Students in Poverty

Manila, Philippines – In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1), “No Poverty,“ Universidad De Manila has continued to pave the way for low-income students to access higher education through its financial aid program. The university’s latest report, presented in June 2024, highlights a notable increase in the number of students receiving financial assistance, underscoring the institution’s commitment to eradicating poverty through education.

During the academic year 2023-2024, a total of 9,597 students benefited from financial aid, a rise from the 9,194 students who received similar support during the 2022-2023 school year. The aid covered free matriculation, enabling these students—many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds—to pursue their academic goals without the burden of tuition costs.

The increase in financial aid recipients is a direct response to the pressing challenges posed by poverty, which continues to limit access to education for many Filipinos. By offering this critical support, Universidad De Manila reaffirms its role as a beacon of hope for low-income families, aligning with national and global efforts to ensure equitable access to quality education.

Financial Aid Distribution by College

The report also detailed the breakdown of financial aid recipients by college and course. While overall enrollment figures varied between the academic years, the number of students receiving financial aid across various disciplines remained consistent, reflecting the university’s broad and inclusive approach to supporting its students.

In the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), a total of 1,810 students received financial aid in SY 2023-2024, a slight decrease from 1,892 students in the previous year. Courses like AB Communication Arts, BS Psychology, and BS Social Work continued to receive strong enrollment despite slight fluctuations in numbers. However, the increase in BS Public Administration from 395 to 405 students reflects growing interest in public service careers.

The College of Business Administration (CBA), on the other hand, saw a significant rise in enrollees benefiting from financial aid, with total enrollment jumping from 2,468 to 2,898 students. Notably, the BS Hospitality Management program witnessed an impressive surge in enrollment, with 1,196 students receiving aid in 2023-2024, up from 762 in the previous year, suggesting a rising demand for careers in the hospitality and tourism industries.

The College of Engineering and Technology (CET) also experienced growth, with 1,273 students enrolled in BS Information Technology for 2023-2024, up from 1,171 the previous year. This highlights the increasing importance of technological skills in today’s digital-driven economy and the university’s role in equipping students with the necessary tools to thrive.

In the College of Education (CED), the total number of students receiving financial aid increased from 1,404 to 1,454. Programs such as BSED-English and B. Physical Education saw notable enrollment increases, emphasizing the university’s commitment to producing future educators and physical fitness experts.

A Step Forward for Poverty Eradication

Universidad De Manila’s financial aid initiative aligns with SDG 1, targeting poverty by eliminating barriers to education. By focusing on supporting students from low-income backgrounds, the university is not only providing educational opportunities but also fostering long-term socio-economic development for individuals and their families.

As the number of students receiving financial assistance continues to grow, the university remains steadfast in its mission to reduce poverty and promote social mobility. The academic community is optimistic that these efforts will empower more students to break free from the cycle of poverty, using education as a vehicle for personal and professional success.

By ensuring access to higher education for financially disadvantaged students, Universidad De Manila is making significant strides toward achieving SDG 1 and contributing to a more equitable and prosperous society for all.

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