Workforce development scholarship program

(a) There is established the workforce development scholarship program to be administered by the University of Hawaii to address projected shortfalls in and needs of the workforce. The program shall be used to provide financial assistance for up to three years to any qualified student enrolled at a community college campus of the University of Hawaii. (b) The number of scholarships awarded and the amount of each scholarship shall be determined by the university and shall be subject to the availability of funds. The University of Hawaii shall offer scholarships to pay for educational costs, such as tuition, fees, books, housing, and other educational costs; provided that the scholarship applicant: (1) Qualifies for Hawaii resident tuition; (2) Earned a high school diploma or passed the general educational development test; and (3) Is eligible for need-based aid according to federal financial aid guidelines. The scholarship may be renewed annually for up to three years; provided that the student maintains satisfactory academic progress.