Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 7687)
Republic Act No. 7687 is also known as the "Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994."
The State shall prioritize research and development, invention, innovation, and the utilization of these, alongside science and technology education, training, and services, to promote national development and progress.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is responsible for administering the Science and Technology Scholarship Fund.
Applicants must belong to the top five percent (5%) of their high school graduating class, be residents of their municipality for the last four years prior to application as attested by school records, and must be of good moral character and in good health.
Grantees may receive tuition and other school fees, grants for prescribed textbooks and essential school supplies, grants for military science and physical education uniforms, transportation expenses, and monthly living allowances, subject to the availability of funds and other considerations.
Scholars must serve full-time in their field of training for a minimum period equivalent to the length of their scholarship by rendering service to their province or municipality in technology-based livelihood activities, teaching, or related services. They must execute a contract detailing this obligation.
The scholar will be liable to reimburse the government for the fund assistance received either in full or in part, depending on the circumstances.
Yes, scholars may study abroad for courses covered by the scholarship, but they must execute an undertaking to return to the Philippines to fulfill their service obligation. The Department of Foreign Affairs assists in enforcing this undertaking.
Incentives include priority job placement in government or private sectors, grants-in-aid for research projects, access to government credit and research facilities, hardship or hazard allowances for dangerous research activities, and travel and accident insurance coverage.
An Advisory Committee headed by the Secretary of Science and Technology and composed of secretaries or heads of various government departments and two representatives from the private sector acts in an advisory capacity.
Scholarships apply to fields of science, mathematics, engineering, and other undergraduate or postgraduate courses recognized or permitted by law as provided by the DOST and DECS rules and regulations.
Scholars must study at academic or training institutions duly accredited by DECS and DOST or private schools accredited by the Federation of Accrediting Agencies in the Philippines (FAAP). State colleges and universities and private schools offering science and technology curricula are ipso facto accredited within 60 days from enactment.