SM Group of Companies’ corporate social responsibility arm SM Foundation welcomes its latest batch of college scholars. Now in its 29th year, the SM Foundation scholarship program has given over 8000 individuals a helping hand in creating a better future for them and their family.
The scholarship program was a commitment started by its founder, the late Tatang Henry Sy, Sr., so that each SM scholar can help send another sibling to school and ultimately help in the improvement of their standard of living.
For this year, 307 scholars were welcomed by SM Foundation’s executive director for Education Carmen Linda Atayde. “We do this at the start of every school calendar and we never get tired of doing this. Because while the program agenda remains almost constant, the many stories behind each scholar applicant’s journey from application to being chosen take different forms as each one comes from diverse situations and locations,” she said.
Applying for an SM scholarship means meeting the criteria set by SM Foundation, passing the qualifying examinations, and hurdling the interview — with virtual home visits conducted by the SMFI Team and employee volunteers from the SM group.
“I know you are very happy and we at SM Foundation want the same for you. But his opportunity comes with a reminder: please stay focused on your studies. Let no person or situation bar you from your dreams. SM Foundation and our benefactors seek only for you to make your own future bright for you and your family. We will be there to cheer you on as you rise to greatness,” Atayde addressed the scholars.
As SM Foundation scholars, the students will be eligible for several benefits, one of which is free tuition and miscellaneous fees. “SM Foundation will be paying these fees directly to the school. Another benefit is a monthly allowance of P2,000 if scholars are studying in the province, and P3,000 for those in Metro Manila. Scholars will also have enrichment programs. They will be allowed to work part-time in SM stores during academic breaks. Finally, once they graduate, they will be given exclusive job offers in the SM Group of Companies,” Eleanor Lansang, SM Foundation vice president for Education shared.
