BOOST Fellow pursuing his passion for science

BOOST FELLOW, Roland Tate has always aspired to be both a scientist and a teacher. His interest was further cemented during a research stint with Professor Paul Reese at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona.

“The opportunity to teach through the BOOST Scholarship Programme allowed me to blend my passion for science with my love for teaching,” Tate said.

He admitted that his passion for science, particularly chemistry, was ignited by his mentor, the late Megil McNeil, at the Portmore Community College. “He taught chemistry in a way that highlighted its relevance to everyday life, showing me its beauty and universal application,” he said.

Tate revealed that he engages his students by illustrating the vast opportunities that studying chemistry can provide. “By tailoring my teaching methods to fit the unique needs of each student, I make the subject accessible and interesting. Students respond positively, often developing a deeper interest and enthusiasm for chemistry,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Tate said he exclusively teaches chemistry. “My fascination with the subject grew because of its comprehensive application in various aspects of life and its potential to solve real-world problems,” he said.

Tate, who is a teacher at Clarendon College, said one of his proudest achievements is teaching a student who ranked number one in the 2022/2023 Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination in Jamaica. “Beyond academic rankings, seeing my students deeply engage with the subject and grow personally and intellectually is my greatest reward,” he said.

Hailing from Kingston Gardens, Tate was raised by his parents, Roland Tate and Carolyn Bailey. Growing up, he said he was surrounded by a large extended family that made his childhood lively and exciting. At 17 years old, he moved to Portmore in St Catherine, where he currently lives.

“I am a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and a joyful individual who loves connecting with people. I enjoy spending time with my brothers and friends, creating a vibrant social environment around me,” he said.

Tate joined the BOOST Programme during his final year at UWI after receiving a scholarship. Initially torn between research and teaching, he chose teaching and has found the support from BOOST to be invaluable to his career.

Tate said he highly recommends the BOOST Programme to anyone passionate about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. “It provides robust support and resources, making it an excellent choice for aspiring educators,” said.

He indicated that over the next five years, his goal is to continue growing and improving as an educator, refining his teaching methods, and fostering a deeper love for chemistry in his students, helping them achieve their full potential.

The BOOST Programme is a novel scholarship scheme designed by UWI to address the shortage of STEM teachers in secondary schools, while nurturing the careers of young STEM professionals. It is a collaborative effort between the UWI Mona’s Faculty of Science and Technology and Faculty of Humanities and Education.

BOOST aims to enhance STEM education in Jamaica by providing a yearly stream of quality science and mathematics teachers through innovative incentivised scholarship programmes. Tertiary graduates who become BOOST Fellows are assigned to teach in schools with STEM needs across the country.