Young people from communities near several hydroelectric plants in the provinces of Cañar, Azuay, and El Oro have begun university studies in Environmental Engineering and Alternative Energies at the Universidad del Azuay. This initiative is funded by a USD 253,056 investment from the Government of El Nuevo Ecuador and implemented by CELEC EP through its CELEC Sur business unit, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Energy.
The scholarship program covers full tuition as well as housing, transportation, basic services, food, and other expenses. Recipients were chosen based on academic performance, socioeconomic background, and personal motivation. The scholarships are part of a tripartite agreement between CELEC Sur, the Museo y Parque Arqueológico Pumapungo, and Universidad del Azuay. Each family is expected to save about USD 32,000 due to this support.
Jennifer Morocho from El Pan (Azuay) shared her perspective: “Una de mis más grandes motivaciones es ser alguien que pueda ayudar a mi familia.” Erick Cando from Sevilla de Oro (Azuay) added: “Mi meta es graduarme, convertirme en un gran profesional y aportar al progreso del Ecuador.”
The program also provides opportunities for work experience related to the agreement’s activities. It includes educational materials aimed at promoting natural resource care, responsible water management, clean energy generation, and climate change adaptation.
Additionally, the agreement supports institutional strengthening efforts and research cooperation among the participating organizations.
“This initiative reaffirms our commitment to youth capable of transforming their territories and contributing to building a sustainable country committed to energy sovereignty,” according to statements from the Government of El Nuevo Ecuador, the Ministry of Environment and Energy, and CELEC EP.
