BALANGA CITY (PIA) -- A total of 34 college and university students in Bataan received a one-time financial grant of P25,000 each from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

The grant under the Student Monetary Assistance for Recovery and Transition (SMART) program aims to provide a one-time fixed financial grant to qualified students enrolled in any undergraduate program for Academic Year 2023-2024.

CHED Administrative Aide Ronaldo Mercado explained that the program is one of the strategies under the National Employment Recovery Strategy, which is increasing the success of students in graduating through scholarships despite the effects of the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Bataan 2nd District Rep. Albert Garcia stated that the provincial government would continue to emphasize education as the key to the success of the youth and the progress and growth of the country.

"Through programs like SMART Grant, we anticipate more youth will succeed and become responsible citizens in the future,” he added.

CHED and the provincial government will provide the same opportunity to about 46 college students as part of the second batch. (CLJD/RPQ-PIA 3)