UC Rusal Alumina Jamaica Limited, the Russia-based parent company of Windalco and Alpart, has awarded 25 Jamaicans full scholarships to pursue undergraduate degrees in Russia.

This year, 13 scholars from the surrounding communities near the Windalco refinery in St Catherine and 12 scholars residing in areas in close proximity to the plant at Alpart in St Elizabeth, received scholarships. Of that number, eight are employees' children and two are employees of Windalco.

The scholarships are valid for five to six years and cover tuition, boarding, airfare, medical insurance and a monthly allowance. Each student is also guaranteed a job with the company for five years at the end of their period of study, once the plants remain in operation. They are also guaranteed internships at a Rusal facility while in Russia. The recipients departed for the university on December 2.