WESTERN BUREAU:
Some 35 gifted high school and tertiary institution students from western Jamaica got a major financial boost on Tuesday when they were awarded scholarships valued at J$6.5 million by the Howard Ward Benefit Foundation through funds generated from its recent MoBay Night Run.
In the event, which was staged in the form of a luncheon held at the Hilton Rose Hall Hotel and Spa, in Montego Bay, the foundation disbursed scholarship commitment letters valued at up to J$300,000 to 20 students attending The University of the West Indies (UWI), University of Technology (UTech), the Caribbean Maritime University, Sam Sharpe Teachers’ College, and the Montego Bay Community College.
Another 15 students, drawn from Cornwall College, Mt Alvernia High School, Montego Bay High School, Ruseas, Herbert Morrison Technical High School, and William Knibb High School, received scholarship letters of commitment valued at up to J$200,000 to cover their tuition.
Scholarship recipient Jemaur Robertson, from the Barrett Town community in St James, was elated as his scholarship offer has paved the way for him to study medicine at The UWI.
Robertson told The Gleaner that while his parents could foot the financial obligations for him to attend Cornwall College and Six Form at Herbert Morrison Technical High School, where he gained the qualification to attend university, he was unsure as to whether his parents could cover the cost of him moving on to university.
“This scholarship is extremely helpful because a couple of weeks ago I didn’t know how I was going to afford to go to UWI,” said Robertson, whose only major concern at this time is to decide whether to advance his studies towards becoming a general medical practitioner or a neurosurgeon.
The Cornwall College old boy, who has a passion for mathematics and the wider sciences, was full of gratitude to the Howard Ward Benefit Foundation for stepping forward in a time of need.
“I was staying with family members in Kingston when I received the call, confirming that I was successful for this scholarship. I was very elated because this would be the start for me to further my education,” said Robertson.
Howard Ward, chairman of the Howard Ward Benefit Foundation, congratulated all the scholarship recipients and promised that he will continue to support gifted students to realise their dreams of accessing secondary and tertiary education.
“The scholarships you have been awarded are not just financial support; they are a recognition of your potential to impact the world positively. Each of you has shown an unwavering commitment to your education and a passion for making a difference; qualities that align with the very core of our Foundation’s purpose,” said Ward.
“As you move forward on your educational journeys, I encourage you to carry with you the knowledge that you are part of a larger community, a community that believes in your potential and supports your dreams,” continued Ward.
“The challenges you face and the hurdles you overcome will shape you, but never forget that you are not alone. You have the backing of a Foundation that is dedicated to helping you succeed,” added Ward.
Ward also told the scholarship recipients that the world needs their innovative ideas, compassion, and leadership.
“I do not doubt that you will rise to the occasion and make a meaningful difference as you embark on the next chapter of your lives. I hope you remember the impact of the opportunities you have been given. Use your education not only to advance your aspirations but also to contribute to the greater good,” urged Ward.