UNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIP ASSISTANCE PROGRAM - II

The program aims to provide scholarships to Lebanese students to pursue higher education at LAU. The program's reporting period is from April to June 2012, and this report is the third quarterly progress report. As of June 2012, the program has achieved several key milestones. The number of host-country individuals receiving USG-funded scholarships to attend higher education institutions has reached 53, exceeding the target of 53 scholars. The gender split of the scholars is 19 males and 34 females, which is in line with the estimated gender split of 35% males and 65% females as per the USP I agreement. The program has also made significant progress in promotional activities. A total of 12 advertisements were published in three Arabic newspapers, exceeding the target of 4 advertisements in each newspaper. Additionally, LAU personnel highlighted USP II during their appearances in Lebanese Radio & TV stations, although this activity was later cancelled. The program has also distributed USP II brochures and financial aid applications to public schools, and LAU admission officers have scheduled meetings with public school principals and presented USP II to their scholars. The program has also made progress in providing support services to the scholars. A total of 53 scholars have been assisted in opening bank accounts, and 53 scholars have been provided with email accounts. Additionally, 53 scholars have been provided with laptops, and 53 scholars have signed letters of understanding explaining the conditions of the scholarship and the responsibilities of LAU and the student. In terms of academic formation, 10 mentors have been assigned to the scholars for the first academic year, and 53 scholars have been advised for registration purposes. The program has also made progress in housing and other facilities, with 53 scholars admitted to student housing, pending their personal preference. Overall, the program has made significant progress in achieving its objectives, and the number of scholars selected and supported has exceeded the target. The program's promotional activities have also been successful, and the scholars have been provided with necessary support services to ensure their academic success.