THIS YEAR, the MCB Rodrigues Scholarship goes to five academics, namely Adriane Emilien, Geremi Justin Meunier, James Nickurdean Genave, Bibi Shabnam Jasbeer Casimir and Marie Anne Sophie Pierre Louis. The official award ceremony took place on Wednesday August 23 at the MCB Centre in Port Louis.s
The new scholarship holders, aged between 19 and 21, are currently starting their tertiary studies at the University of Mauritius. They all intend to return to Rodrigues once their studies are completed.
Geremi Justin Meunier and Bibi Shabnam Jasbeer Casimir, from Rodrigues College, aged 19 and 20 respectively, have both chosen mechanical engineering. “This sector is booming and I’m delighted to be able to help my country when I return,” explains Shabnam. For Justin, the scholarship means he can make his dream come true. “It’s a subject I’ve been passionate about since I was very young, and this financial support couldn’t have come at a better time.”
Adriane Emilien – aged 20 – agrees: “I would like to use my skills to contribute to the advancement of my country”.
For Marie Anne Sophie Pierre Louis, another scholarship recipient: “This scholarship doesn’t just provide financial support. It also provides moral support, as it enables me to pursue my studies without worry,” she explains.
James Nickurdean Genave, 19, wants to specialize in cybercrime to help Rodrigues in this area.
As a reminder, the MCB RS rewards at least one student of Rodriguan origin who has been resident on the island for 23 years. The scholarship requires several criteria: the recipient must come from a low-income family, have chosen a course of study likely to contribute to the development of Rodrigues, and be willing to work in Rodrigues once his/her studies are completed.
The MCB Forward Foundation scholarship includes a monthly allowance of Rs 12,000 per student, to cover the cost of school materials and transport. The scholarship also covers university costs, as well as airfare. 42 scholars have been awarded scholarships by the MCB Forward Foundation to date.
