The suspension of the Generación del Bicentenario scholarship program for 2026 was announced in April, leaving hundreds of Peruvian professionals uncertain about their postgraduate studies, according to a May 4 statement. The decision by the Ministry of Education’s National Program of Scholarships and Educational Credit (Pronabec) has affected many candidates who had invested significant time and effort preparing applications to top global universities.
The scholarship provides full financial support for master’s or doctoral studies at leading international institutions, covering tuition, living expenses, insurance, and other costs. The annual program awarded 150 scholarships last year and has benefited more than 2,500 Peruvians over its twelve-year history. Many candidates say the abrupt suspension jeopardizes their academic plans and future careers.
Ariana Figueroa Cornejo, an economist from Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) accepted into Oxford University’s Master’s in Development Studies program, said: “I come from a COAR (Colegio de Alto Rendimiento). Things have not been easy. Pursuing the scholarship was not just another thing for me. Studying and developing professionally is part of my identity. I am Ariana because I am good at this. That is what makes me who I am… Going to Oxford is the dream of my life. I have done everything in my power and now this happens. All those years’ effort for nothing… It feels like a void.”
The Ministry explained that the suspension was due to a comprehensive restructuring process aimed at improving efficiency and transparency in public investment in higher education. Minister María Esther Cuadros confirmed that no new call will be made unless Congress approves an additional budget request for S/14 million.
Paola Marius, head of Quality Education at PUCP’s Continuing Education Directorate, said: “What needs to happen is that Minedu reviews its priorities… Some experts have mentioned: the ministry does not execute all its budget during the year; this means they could adjust these S/15 or S/20 million needed for new Bicentenario scholarships without requesting extra funds from Congress.” She suggested alternative financing models such as partial scholarships or student loans with private sector involvement could help make programs sustainable.
Enrique Chon, Pronabec’s executive director, indicated concerns about beneficiaries fulfilling their commitment to return to Peru after study but noted most do comply with this requirement.
Jaime Saavedra, former Minister of Education and World Bank official said: “If it is said that beneficiaries are not returning to Peru then rules should be enforced so they do return… But you fix problems—you don’t suspend or cancel scholarships.” He warned that halting high-level scholarship programs slows national development by limiting opportunities for talented individuals regardless of background.
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