COTABATO CITY—Bangsamoro Government’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) awarded a total of P11,600,000 in cash grants to 290 scholars of the Bangsamoro Special Assistance for Science Education (BSASE) on June 20, 2024.
The MOST’s BSASE scholarship grants aim to support the educational pursuits of talented individuals from across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
BARMM Chief Minister Ahod Ebrahim emphasized the importance of education in promoting science, technology, and innovation, describing it as crucial for economic growth and the production of Science and Technology professionals.
“The Bangsamoro Government firmly believes that education is crucial for our continued pursuit and progress in science and technology. It is an engine for economic growth by promoting and fostering science, technology, and innovation and producing S&T professionals,” CM Ebrahim said.
MOST Minister Engr. Aida Silongan advised the grantees to harness the power of science to shape their lives and the future of Bangsamoro.
“Your journey will begin by implementing the power of science to shape your lives and the future of Bangsamoro. We believe in you to bring us a brighter tomorrow. May your journey be filled with inspiration and success,” Silongan said.
The first batch of grantees received P40,000.00 for the first semester of the 2024 academic year (January to May). They will receive P8,000.00 per month next semester.
These college students, pursuing science and technology courses, applied through the Office of Members of Parliament with facilitation by MOST.
Meanwhile, the second batch of grantees from Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi will also receive grants and take their oath.
This year, a total of 400 grantees will benefit from the BSASE Scholarship Program. MOST allocated P33,000,000.00 for the 2024 scholar grants under BSASE GAAB, co-initiated by Members of Parliament.
By empowering Bangsamoro students to excel in science and technology, MOST encourages these students to become future leaders in scientific innovation, research, and technological advancement.
The ministry also congratulated all the grantees as they embarked on this journey toward academic and professional success. (Majid Nur with reports from MOST)