The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) welcomed new scholars to the Advanced Degrees for Accelerating Strategic Space R & D and Applications (AD ASTRA) Scholarship Program. The scholars signed their contracts in a ceremony on Wednesday, 08 February, at the PhilSA office on the 29th floor CyberOne Building, Eastwood City, Quezon City. The signing was witnessed by PhilSA officials led by Director General Joel Joseph S. Marciano, Ph.D., Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Gay Jane P. Perez, Ph.D., Space Technology Missions and Systems Bureau Director Marc Caesar Talampas, Ph.D., and Space Policy and International Cooperation Bureau Director Atty. Noelle Riza. D. Castillo.

In his message, DG Marciano reminded the students of the bigger purpose they now serve as AD ASTRA Scholars: “We want our scholarship program to be responsive to the needs of scholars of our country. AD ASTRA does not really serve the Agency alone, but we are putting the taxes of our countrymen to good use by investing in young people like you, by giving you opportunities and opening doors for you, so you could also create opportunities for yourselves and your fellow countrymen.”

PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez, in her message, noted that the scholars are now part of the Philippine space ecosystem: “As you were chosen in the field of space science, technology, and engineering, this is a challenge for you to stay committed in bringing forth new learnings and in strengthening your skills to become the next generation to advance SSTA in the country – be it as researchers, engineers, or future leaders of the nation. Let this be an opportunity to ground yourself as much as you uplift your character in being the best there is as we continue to uphold the mission and vision of the agency.”

The following AD ASTRA scholars are pursuing their graduate degrees locally and abroad on various research projects related to space science and technology applications: 

AD ASTRA offers tuition and other school fees, stipend, research grant, allowances for thesis/dissertation, research dissemination grants, and allowances for relocation and extra-academic activities, among others. Upon the completion of their scholarship, the students are bound to re-enter the local workforce to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills to benefit the country.

For more information on AD ASTRA, visit this link.