Seven students who performed outstandingly in the GCE ‘A’ Level/CAPE examinations in high school were recently awarded the 2004-2005 annual Jamaica Scholarship offered by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Culture.

The students and their former schools are:

. Josemar Cuffe, Wolmer’s Boys;

. Danielle Chai, Manchester High;

. Andre Morgan, Manchester High;

. Jessica Stewart, St Andrew High;

. Danielle Smellie, Immaculate Conception High;

. Jean Rose, Campion College; and

. Tristan Henry, Campion College.

The seven are all pursuing tertiary studies at the University of the West Indies, at the Mona and St Augustine campuses located respectively in Jamaica and Trinidad.

The scholarship covers tuition fees, a maintenance allowance of $60,000, and a book allowance of $15,000.

Students who have obtained the scholarship cannot change their course of study without prior approval from the ministry. And continuation of the award is subject to satisfactory performance of the students in their area of study, and attendance.

The criteria for their selection included academic ability, participation in extra curricula activities, communication skills, personality and evidence of leadership qualities, financial need and relevance of the selected programme of study to the country’s need.

All awardees are bonded to work with the Jamaican government or any local organisation approved by the education ministry for a period stipulated by the Cabinet Office.