Bangkok: The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) continues to provide educational opportunities through the "EXAT Smart Youth" project, carrying on its mission to support youth and communities around expressways.
According to Thai News Agency, the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT), under the Ministry of Transport, is steadfast in its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mission, which has been in place since 2002. Through the 'EXAT Smart Youth' scholarship program, EXAT is providing educational opportunities to youth in schools and communities situated around expressways. This effort underscores EXAT's commitment not only to developing the expressway network but also to enhancing the quality of life for surrounding communities sustainably. Mr. Surachet Laopulsuk, Governor of EXAT, led the scholarship award ceremony at the Expressway Management Center Auditorium, attended by EXAT executives, school administrators, teachers, students, and employees.
Mr. Surachet emphasized that EXAT places a high priority on education and the potential development of children and youth. Education is seen as a crucial foundation for creating opportunities and improving the quality of life. Over the past 24 years, EXAT has consistently supported educational initiatives for schools and communities near its expressways, benefiting over 1,000 children and youth. For the current year, the 'EXAT Smart Youth' project has selected 43 schools located around its eight expressways to receive scholarships amounting to over 900,000 baht.
The scholarships are categorized into three types. Type A scholarships are awarded to students with good academic performance and conduct, providing continuous support until they complete their highest level of education. Type B scholarships offer similar continuous support for financially disadvantaged students. These scholarships, each worth 3,000 baht, are available from 13 schools, with 15 scholarships per school for 12 schools and 24 scholarships for one school. Type C consists of annual scholarships for students in schools around the expressway area, with 10 scholarships per school for 30 schools.
Every journey on the expressway, whether through Easy Pass or cash tolls, contributes to EXAT's mission and supports community activities, including educational opportunities for children and youth in areas around the expressways.
Mr. Surachet further stated that the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) values harmonious coexistence with schools, communities, and society. Providing scholarships is about more than financial aid; it's about offering opportunities for young people to learn, develop their potential, and grow into vital contributors to the country. EXAT pledges to continue its social responsibility mission, ensuring that expressways not only facilitate travel but also connect opportunities for a better future.