Scholarships for Young Chujes

The Jóvenes Chujes School Scholarship project aims to provide educational opportunities for adolescents and young people in San Mateo Ixtatán who lack the economic resources to access quality education. The program is designed for students with strong academic interests, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving their living conditions.

An innovative aspect of the scholarship program is its focus on skill-building through workshops on a wide range of topics, including migration, violence prevention, sexual violence, exploitation, human trafficking, entrepreneurship, self-esteem, mental health, leadership, teamwork, and vocational guidance. These workshops help to equip students with essential life and career skills, preparing them for future success. The scholarships are funded by national and international individual donors and are awarded annually based on a comprehensive socioeconomic study and a home visit to each applicant. This ensures that the scholarships are given to those who need them most.

Monitoring and support for the scholarship recipients are conducted through regular home visits, quarterly meetings, and continuous communication to track their academic performance, progress, and challenges. The program also coordinates with local educational authorities and the District Coordinator of Education of San Mateo Ixtatán to ensure students receive the support they need.

As of 2024, over the past five years, the program has awarded more than 1,000 scholarships, with 74% of recipients being women. This focus on female education is crucial for reducing gender inequality, promoting women’s inclusion in the labor market, and supporting entrepreneurship. The program also helps young women exercise their fundamental human rights, including the right to education.