Sahil Shivnesh Chand, a second year Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource and Management) student at The University of the South Pacific’s (USP) Labasa Campus was the proud recipient of the Balgovind Scholarship.
The late Mr Shrikisun Balgovind provided a legacy of $100,000.00 in his will to be invested by the trustee of the USP Endowment fund. Income arising from the investment is used to award at least two scholarships each year for deserving Itaukei and Indian students who are Fiji citizens. Under the current MOU, this scholarship will be available for 75 years, ending in January 2056.
Sahil described receiving the scholarship as “achieving my goal “and “the nicest feeling I’ve ever had throughout my educational career”.
This scholarship has enabled me to pursue my education career in a cost-effective manner because I will not have to pay for anything and can only focus on my studies.
the 20 year-old Chand
Growing up in a middle-class family, Sahil noted, was challenging because he has other siblings for whom his parents pay expenses.
This scholarship will enable me to further my education and support my family in the future.
His biggest inspiration, he said, were his older brothers, who all have degrees from USP, which has helped them acquire better employment.
Sahil emphasised that every parent’s goal is to see their child succeed in school and develop in their careers, making their parents proud.
Success will always be dedicated to my parents, who have always been the most supportive people in my life. Without their affection and support, it would be challenging for me to continue my education and earn this scholarship.
Chand
The scholarship covers tuition fees; book allowance; and living allowance per semester; general service fees and health service fees.
To be eligible, students need to be a Fiji citizen of either iTaukei or Indian descent; have a parental/guardian combined income of not more than FJD 20,000; satisfy the USP Degree admission criteria for a new student or; have GPA of 2.8 or above in the USP Foundation programme.