Two young, bright and ambitious Palauan medical students, Ms. Samantha S. Olkerill and Ms. Rilang Roberto, graduated from I-Shou University in Taiwan on June 3, 2017. The Commencement exercise was witnessed by a high profile Palau delegation consisting of Minister of Health Dr. Emais Roberts, Minister of Education Sinton Soalablai, Senator Dr. Stevenson Kuartei, Senator Aric Nakamura, Delegate Dilmai Saiske, Delegate Vicky Kanai, among other dignitaries.
The highlight of the graduation ceremony came when Ms. Olkeriil was announced to deliver the Valedictory Address on behalf of the total 32 graduates from the School of Medicine for International Students in I-Shou University. Palau Ambassador to Taiwan Dilmai Olkeriil was there to enjoy the proud moment for her great country.
Both Ms. Olkeriil and Ms. Roberto enrolled in this new scholarship program in 2013 and have been undertaking state of the art medical education and training since then. Being the first graduates of this post-bachelor School of Medicine program, they are determined to make contributions to their home country Palau.
Medical cooperation is an integral part of the strong bond between Taiwan and Palau. For years there have been several Taiwanese hospitals coming to Palau to provide assistance in various areas. While Shin Kong Hospital serves as the main medical referral service provider for Palauan patients, I-Shou University/ E-DA Hospital is dedicated to nurturing medical talents for Palau as well as other Taiwan’s diplomatic allies. It is widely expected that this two young Palauan medical doctors will help improve the medical capability building in this pristine paradise country.
The Taiwan Embassy would like to congratulate Ms. Olkeriil and Ms. Roberto for their outstanding academic performance in the past four years and at the same time Mr. Andrew Ridep for receiving a full scholarship this year and becoming the third Palauan student studying at I-Shou University. Students who are interested in applying for this medical program scholarship are encouraged to contact the Embassy for more details.
