I am an BS Electronics Engineering graduate and I was granted a scholarship by a electronics company in my 3rd year of college. I have availed of it until i graduate.
This "scholarship" involves a written agreement (between me, the company and since i was a minor then, they had required my father's signature). This agreement includes that after college, I should undergo training then work for the company or pay for the scholarship if i dont work for them.
After graduation, as part of the requirement for the training, we underwent physical examinations under an affiliate industrial medical center of the company. After my 1st medical exam, the center and the company told me to have a retake xray exam. And to cut the story short, the results came out that i have a lung problem specifically Minimal PTB (i suppose it is pulmonary tubercolosis).
With such results, the medical center advised me to no longer pursue the pre-employment training. I asked for a second opinion for a respiratory specialist and I am currently under 6 months treatment and she advise that knowing the nature of my work as Electronic engineer, it will be hazardous for me to work in plants/factories anymore.
Now the problem is, the company is now making demands for me to appear before them and have another assessment by the company physician. This is merely a speculation but with such actions, they are forcing me to work for them or they want me to pay for the scholarship.
Initially, i denied their demand to have an assessment under their company physician for 3 main reasons. First, the xray results interpreted by the Radiologist of the medical center is with them and i believe enough proof for my condition. Secondly, my doctor has advised me not to make unnecessary travels (the company would be a 4 hours ride without traffic). And lastly, I have no assurance that the findings of the company doctor will not be in favor of the company he/she is working for.
What should I do? Whose findings should prevail? Knowing my condition, I do not wish to endanger myself with work. But it seems that they are not taking my physical incapability as a valid reason to decline the employment but rather either force me to work with them or pay the scholarship. Should I be liable for being sick? They are threatening me that they will do necessary actions if I dont undergo assessment with their company doctor. But is it fair that they should the one to determine it? Is it a crime to get sick nowadays?c",)
Is termination of scholarship due to health reasons not valid? or is there even such thing as a scholarship contract? Should it not be that scholarship grants should be given because of merit and are acts of charity? Are there any legal issues involved? Should I be liable?
Thank you and I badly need advise.