ELEVEN Jamaican students have been awarded Russian scholarships under a bilateral agreement between the Government of Jamaica and the Russian Federation. They will leave the island on November 6 to pursue tertiary level studies at universities in the capital city Moscow.

The students are Jermaine Francis 20; Dalhugh Tracy 26; Stacy-Ann Golding 20; Ptamonie Salmon 22; Sherwayne Henry 20; Randy Robinson 21; Claudia Manning 20; Damarley Bartley 20; Damikie Christian 20; Tanya-Gaye Wheatle 24 and Thausha Martin 34.

The scholarship recipients will pursue studies in the fields of medicine, pharmacy, political science and public health.

In a response, Francis said he is extremely elated and feels truly blessed to have been selected.

“This is a great opportunity for me. I never imagined that this would have happened to me and I will encourage others to apply for scholarships too, as they might end up getting a great opportunity,” Francis said at a reception to honour the awardees at the residence of the Russian ambassador in Norbrook, St Andrew.

He will be the only student studying pharmacy in a five-year programme.

Manning, another scholarship awardee, told Career & Education that she is not only awaiting to start her new course, but to enjoy the new culture for the next seven years.

“I feel great to have received the scholarship. I will try my utmost to live up to the expectations of the Russians. I hope to do well academically as the previous scholars who went there did,” Manning said.

Meanwhile, Victor Zotin, Russian ambassador to Jamaica, encouraged those selected to represent their country well in their academic pursuits when in Russia.

“Please study hard and diligently when you are in Russia. Do not stay in closed doors when you get there. Go out, interact well with the Russians and make sure you have a complete experience. I do hope that when you come back to Jamaica you will continue the path of a great career,” he said.

The scholars will pursue either first or master’s degrees. Ten from this group will pursue bachelor’s degrees and Martin will go for her master’s in political science.

Last year, the Russian Federation sponsored 15 Jamaican students to study in Russia. There are 24 Jamaican scholars now studying in Russia in the programme, which has been in existence since the 1970s.

The scholarships cost the Russian Federation over US$45,000 per student. Other costs are subsidised by the Government of Jamaica.