FOR ALMOST a decade, Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (BAP), the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles and parts in the country, has been supporting underprivileged youths as scholars of the BAP Mazda-MFI Automotive Technology Scholarship Program.
This year, BAP and MFI Polytechnic Institute welcome the 10th batch of scholars. Ten new students will take a two-year program accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to help them develop skills for an automotive work environment.
“The BAP Mazda-MFI Automotive Technology Scholarship Program teaches students the fundamentals of engine operation and maintenance. More than that, they also learn to develop communicative, vocational, occupational, and interpersonal skills,” said Mazda Scholarship Program Coordinator on Special Projects Ed Lendio.
Upon completion of the two-year course, students are expected to become proficient in repairing and servicing vehicles, assembling automotive systems, troubleshooting both simple and complex automotive problems, and installing vehicular components according to every vehicle’s specification. They are also trained to “develop a holistic and positive work attitude.” Some graduates are assigned to various Mazda Philippines dealerships to experience practical application and on-the-job training.
“Scholars who have graduated from the course have found gainful employment not only within the Mazda Philippines dealership network, but some graduates even end up working for BAP. Currently, there are three employed with us,” said BAP Senior Manager Oliver Buan.
In line with Mazda’s global vision that aims to enrich people’s lives as well as society, BAP said it remains committed in supporting underprivileged youth who are striving hard to follow their dreams. BAP sees education as a transformative tool in people’s lives and is essential in breaking the cycle of poverty.
Formerly known as the MFI Foundation, Inc., the MFI Polytechnic Institute has supported more than 270 scholars since 2014 with BAP’s sponsorship and direction. A total of 170 graduates have completed the Automotive Technology course utilizing the institute’s two-year Dual Training System.