LOS ANGELES, April 13 (EFE) – Technology company Amazon announced Wednesday that it has offered 10 10 million in university scholarships in computer science to 250 high school seniors and historically under-represented communities, including about 100 Hispanics.
The company, which specializes in e-commerce and computer services, said in a statement that from this year, each student will receive $ 40,000 for four years to study computer science at the university of their choice.
Recipients will be able to take part in internships offered by the company after their new year of college so that they can gain work experience and advice with company leaders.
Since 2019, the program has provided 50 22 million in scholarships to 550 students in the United States, it added.
Academic performance, leadership, involvement in school and community activities, work experience, goals and the need for financial support were considered for selection.
This year’s winners came from more than 30 states and territories, including Puerto Rico.
More than 70% of grantees are identified as African American, Hispanic and Native American, and 50% female, groups that are currently under-represented in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers.
Computer science is one of the fastest growing professions in the STEM field.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job opportunities for IT workers will increase by 13% between 2020 and 2030.
Yet only 8% of STEM graduates have a computer science degree, and only a small percentage of them come from well-earned and historically under-represented communities, the firm noted.
“These opportunities are essential for building a diverse technology industry and enriching our community,” said Victor Reinoso, Global Director of Amazon’s Philanthropic Educational Initiatives.
(c) EFE agency