SM, through SM Store and SM Retail, in partnership with Mastercard, and SM Foundation launched a new initiative aimed at empowering Filipino students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Ten exceptional students from the Ten Outstanding STEM Students (TOSS) program will receive scholarship grants, along with access to critical digital learning tools, to help them succeed in today’s tech-driven world.
Mastercard will donate P100 to SM Foundation for every eligible transaction made using a Philippine-issued Mastercard at SM Stores. The funds raised from Nov. 15 to 17, 2024 during the promo period would go directly toward supporting the scholarships for these students, enabling them to pursue higher education and build careers in the technology sector.
The program also seeks to address the digital divide in the Philippines. Previous efforts equipped thousands of students with e-tablets and established digital learning hubs in public schools.
Nearly 10,000 students benefited from these resources, gaining access to modern technology that enhances their educational experience in 2023.
According to a 2020 Department of Education survey, only 64 percent of Filipino students had access to smartphones, and just 55 percent had access to laptops—critical tools for participating in digital learning.
SM Investments is one of the leading Philippine companies that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.
