THE University College of the Caribbean (UCC) has awarded a scholarship, valued at $400,000, to winner of the Miss Teen Jamaica 2011/12 title, Krystle Kerr.

The 16-year-old William Knibb High School student received the award on September 1, at a presentation ceremony held at UCC’s campus in Kingston.

The award was handed over by the university college’s executive chairman and president, Winston I Adams.

Kerr, the 31st winner of the contest and the first from Montego Bay, thanked UCC for their kind gesture, and promised to make the best use of the opportunity the institution has offered her.

The scholarship, which was being offered for the second consecutive year, gives the winner the opportunity to pursue any undergraduate course at UCC.

“I intend to start my studies here at the UCC where I will pursue my law degree,” said Kerr, who was crowned on July 24 at the finals held at the Knutsford Court Hotel.

The teen, who wore the sash of ‘Parts Zone Auto Parts’, was strongly supported by the Montego Bay community during

the contest, and has consistently expressed a deep commitment to the parish of St James where she hopes to practise her profession.

Kerr beat out 14 of her peers from high schools across Jamaica. In addition to the title, she also won prizes for being the Most Intelligent, Most Eloquent as well as the contestant with the Best Christian Principles.

Kerr was crowned by last year’s winner Renee Wilson, of Mona High School, who was the first winner of a UCC scholarship and who began her studies there this month.