IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) - The Commission on Higher Education in Region 9 (CHED) has recently extended support to 104 deserving students in Zamboanga Sibugay through the Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) program.  

Each beneficiary has been given a one-time financial grant of P25,000 in a bid to alleviate financial burdens on college students.

The SMART program is designed for undergraduates enrolled during the academic year 2023-2024 who seek to lessen the financial pressure of obtaining a higher education. The program is crucial for ensuring everyone can access education due to the increase in schooling costs.

Jayson Butay, a criminology student and one of the beneficiaries, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the timely assistance, emphasizing the significant help the financial grant provides him with his school needs.

"Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be a recipient of this program. I am one of the students who strives hard to finish my studies, and this amount is of great help for my school needs," Butay said. 

Zamboanga Sibugay 2nd district Rep. Antonieta Eudela led the aid distribution and highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to providing financial assistance to students, ensuring their success both academically and in their future endeavors.

Dr. Rody P. Garcia, regional director of CHED, underscores the importance of investing in the educational aspirations of these students and that education remains the most potent tool for socio-economic advancement.

The SMART program serves as a beacon of hope for students, and it is evident that collaboration for better education is crucial in fostering a bright future. The support provided is essential to ensuring fair access to education. (KSA/EDT/RBI/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)