It was 2007 when SM Foundation’s scholarship program added the Bacolod and Negros Occidental area in its roster of students to support for a full ride to a college education. Since then until this academic year 2024-2025, SMFI’s support in Bacolod has touched a total of eighty-six. Of that total, fifty-one are currently studying in various year levels at any one of the foundation’s partner schools. The remaining thirty-five have since graduated and are now gainfully productive in their respective careers.
Before the school year started, SM Foundation gathered the scholars and alumni from Bacolod, Iloilo and Roxas for teambuilding and learning sessions, with special treats from the SM Group. It is an event that they look forward to every year and a way of cultivating camaraderie and community in the scholar family. As scholars forged connections with peers and mentors, they also gained insights into the program’s various benefits, including exclusive opportunities for part-time employment during academic vacations and internship placements.
Established in 1993 by SM Group founder Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr., the SM College Scholarship Program has been dedicated to empowering Filipino youth by supporting their tertiary. Combined with other provisions for the scholars, this SM initiative offers a holistic approach to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Qualified scholars have the choice to pursue the courses and universities supported by the foundation. In Bacolod and the province, these academic institutions include Colegio San Agustin Bacolod, University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos, University of St. La Salle, and the Technological University of the Philippines – Visayas, for courses such as engineering, computer science, business administration, accountancy and education.
The SM Group provides this platform to allow scholars to gain hands-on experience in professional environments throughout their academic journey. This exposure to the corporate world aims to cultivate well-rounded individuals who can seamlessly transition into professional roles, contributing to the growth and development of their communities and the nation.
Furthermore, the scholarship program offers pathways to employment within the SM Group upon graduation, providing scholars with a solid foundation for their future careers.