Launched in 2013, the Shell–PhilDev Scholarship Program was created to strengthen the Philippines’ STEM talent pipeline by expanding access to quality tertiary education for high-potential students with limited financial means. The program is implemented by Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. in partnership with Science and Technology Foundation Manila, combining academic support with industry-linked development to prepare scholars for long-term careers in science and engineering.
The scholarship supports qualified students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics degrees in partner universities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Assistance begins in the scholars’ second year of college and continues through graduation, ensuring sustained support during the most critical years of their academic journey.
Beyond financial aid, the program was intentionally designed with a holistic development framework. PhilDev plays a central role in reinforcing academic excellence with mentorship, leadership development, and exposure to professional environments, helping scholars bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. This approach responds directly to the country’s need for STEM graduates who are not only technically capable but also industry-ready and socially grounded.
As of 2025, the program has supported 215 scholars nationwide, with 194 graduates to date. Academic outcomes demonstrate strong performance, with 52 percent of graduates earning Latin honors. Employment outcomes further reflect the program’s effectiveness, as 88 percent of scholars are now employed or engaged in business, while others are pursuing further studies or preparing for board examinations. Notably, 34 graduates have been hired by Shell, contributing directly to the country’s STEM workforce and strengthening industry capability.
What distinguishes the Shell–PhilDev Scholarship Program is its sustained emphasis on mentorship and community. Through coordinated coaching and guidance from PhilDev, Shell, PSFI, and partner organizations, scholars develop professional confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of purpose. This support network continues beyond graduation, fostering a community often described by scholars as a lasting professional family.
Through its partnership with PhilDev, the program demonstrates how targeted investment in STEM education can generate measurable outcomes, from academic excellence to workforce participation. More than a scholarship, it is a long-term commitment to developing Filipino talent and enabling scholars to contribute meaningfully to national development.
