USAID University Scholarship Program (USP) Progress Report 22

The program aimed to provide full-tuition awards, including funding for housing, books, and stipends, to students with high financial need and gender-balanced representation. Haigazian University received a grant of [redacted amount] from USAID to establish the scholarship program, with the university also providing cost-sharing amounting to $607,335. During the reporting period of January 1 to March 31, 2016, the USP office met with all students to discuss their progress and provide support. The number of students with an overall full semester average above 85 increased to 4, while the number of students with an overall full semester average below 75 decreased to 4. The number of student assistants providing support at the study center remained at 5, and the number of student support sessions offered by the study center increased to 53.5. The leadership development component of the program saw significant progress, with 3 monthly leadership events attended by USP scholars, including guest speakers and roundtable discussions. The average attendance to the monthly leadership events was 89%, with 16 scholars registered in the leadership academic class and 15 scholars actively engaged in student clubs. Additionally, 3 scholars assumed leadership roles in their student clubs. In terms of career development, 3 different companies/organizations offered internships to scholars, with 2 males and 3 females engaged in internships. The number of career sessions offered remained at 1, with an average attendance of 94% among female students and 100% among male students. The number of scholars matched to a job by the sub-grantee remained at 0. The graduation component of the program saw significant progress, with 15 scholars placed on probation, 15 scholars in senior year status, and 15 scholars who have successfully graduated from the program. Additionally, 3 males and 11 females pursued graduate studies post-graduation, and 1 male and 4 females found employment within 3-6 months after graduation. The outreach component of the program saw limited progress, with 15 instances of USP being publicly promoted through TV, newspaper, and website. However, outreach is planned for the next quarter.