By: Delaila Irma T. Calindas, Project Technical Staff II

The CHED-CAR UniFAST Unit marked another milestone in its advocacy and information dissemination initiatives with the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of the UAQTEA Time Program on Radio Kabinnulig of the Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology (ASIST).

The MOA signing formalized the partnership between CHED‑UniFAST Cordillera Administrative Region and ASIST in utilizing community radio as a platform to promote and disseminate accurate and timely information on student financial assistance programs under the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA). Through Radio Kabinnulig, the program aims to reach a wider audience, particularly students, parents, and other stakeholders in Abra and nearby areas.

Representing ASIST during the ceremonial signing was Dr. Janelyn Talingdan, UniFAST Focal Person of the institution. The activity underscored the crucial role of higher education institutions as partners of the government in strengthening awareness, access, and understanding of tertiary education financial assistance programs.

This partnership marks the fifth collaboration of the Unit in the conduct of the UAQTEA Time Program. The project, which started last year, has already partnered with four radio stations and successfully conducted six radio sessions, expanding its reach and impact across the region.

The signing of the MOA signifies a strengthened commitment to advocacy and collaboration, reinforcing the shared goal of ensuring that information on UAQTEA programs effectively reaches its intended beneficiaries, especially those from marginalized and underserved sectors.