With an investment of USD 253,056 by the Government of El Nuevo Ecuador, young people from areas near the Mazar, Molino, Sopladora, Minas San Francisco, and Alazán hydroelectric plants in Cañar, Azuay, and El Oro have begun university studies in Environmental Engineering and Alternative Energies at Universidad del Azuay. The full scholarship program is led by President Daniel Noboa and carried out by the Ministry of Environment and Energy together with Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC EP) through its CELEC Sur business unit.
The selection process for beneficiaries took into account academic performance, socioeconomic background, and personal motivation. The scholarships are part of a tripartite cooperation agreement between CELEC Sur, Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, and Universidad del Azuay. Each scholarship covers tuition, housing, transportation, basic services, food, and other expenses. According to the organizations involved, this represents a saving of about USD 32,000 per family.
Jennifer Morocho from El Pan (Azuay) said: “One of my greatest motivations is to be someone who can help my family.” Erick Cando from Sevilla de Oro (Azuay) stated: “My goal is to graduate, become a great professional and contribute to Ecuador’s progress.”
The program also includes work placements for students in activities related to the agreement so they can gain professional experience. In addition, it involves producing educational materials on natural resource care, responsible water management, clean energy generation and climate change adaptation.
The tripartite agreement further promotes institutional strengthening efforts as well as research and cooperation among the participating entities.
According to those involved in the initiative, this effort demonstrates the commitment of the Government of El Nuevo Ecuador, the Ministry of Environment and Energy and CELEC EP to supporting youth who can transform their communities while contributing to a sustainable country focused on energy sovereignty.
