IN celebration of the National Commercial Bank's 175th anniversary, the financial Group, through its Foundation, has committed $21 million to awarding more than 200 students at the primary, secondary and tertiary levels with scholarships and grants.

A hundred and 75 of that 200 will go to tertiary-level students. "As we celebrate 175 years of service to the Jamaican people, we find it most fitting to extend a big thank you to our nation by awarding 175 young people scholarships and grants to pursue their tertiary studies," said Belinda Williams, manager of NCB group corporate communications.

"NCB's commitment to the advancement of education continues to be a major focus of the group's corporate social responsibility programme. Since the formalisation of the NCB Foundation in 2003, NCB has been dedicated to enriching the lives of our nation's youth by investing in their education," she added.

NCB's scholarship programme helps primarily students who show an unwavering commitment to their education, despite financial challenges.

Among the 175 tertiary students being awarded, youths from Jamaica's 14 parishes will be provided with scholarships valued at a maximum of $250,000 each per annum for the period of their studies.

Of the selected parish champions, the top boy and girl will receive the All-Island Champion Award, which is valued at a maximum of $500,000 each per annum for the period of their studies. Both scholarships are awarded based on high academic performance, a demonstration of community spirit and leadership abilities.

Returning parish champions will also be included in the 175 tertiary scholarships to be awarded. In addition, more than 120 students at the tertiary level — including 28 students pursuing teaching degrees — will be awarded grants valued at $50,000 each to cover tuition fees and books.

Since the formalisation of the NCB Foundation in 2003, NCB has spent more than $200 million on providing educational opportunities through various programmes and partnership.

The results include the provision of more than 1,000 students with the opportunity to obtain a tertiary education and the payment of fees for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate subjects principles of accounts and principles of business for high school students across the island.