$7.8 million to pay exam fees for 1,310 students

A total of 1,310 students who will be sitting information technology (IT) in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exam, and computer science in the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) this year, will have their fees fully paid.

The NCB Foundation, through its CSEC/CAPE National Bursary Programme, has provided a grant of $7.8 million to subsidise the cost of these exams. Chair of the foundation, Thalia Lyn, handed over the cheque to Noleta Case, training and client relations manager at the Overseas Examinations Commission (OEC), during a recent ceremony at Immaculate Conception High School in St Andrew. Through the programme, the NCB partners with the education ministry and the OEC to cover the examination fees for select students in private and public schools across the island who are pursuing IT and computer science at the CSEC and CAPE levels. The objective is to ensure that the students meet the subject requirements for tertiary education or career advancement.

Deputy Chief Education Officer Winnie Berry, who brought remarks on behalf of portfolio minister Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon, commended NCB Foundation for providing "a vital lifeline for those who need it most". The foundation has invested more than $240 million in the bursary programme since its inception in 2003, benefiting more than 109,000 students. The foundation initially issued grants to students pursuing principles of business and principles of accounts, but shifted its focus in 2022 to IT and computer science, citing the changing digital world.

"This initiative is particularly important as we navigate a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The future of our country depends on the skills and expertise of our young people, particularly in fields such as information technology and computer science," said Berry. She also highlighted the ministry's commitment to give further assistance to students through the Transforming Education for National Development programme, which is aimed at addressing key challenges within the sector and improving educational outcomes, while fostering national development.

"The combination of financial support and educational initiatives creates an environment in which our students are not only financially supported, but are also given the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world," Berry said.

Lyn reiterated the foundation's commitment to the bursary programme, adding that it is an investment in the country's future. She encouraged students to keep their talents in Jamaica and contribute to the country's development.

"Stay with us a little, help Jamaica to develop these [technological] industries. We have invested in you; we have great faith in you, [and] we want you to help us carry it on. Pay it forward, because that's the only way we are going to build a better Jamaica," she said.