THE University of Birmingham and the Jamaica National Foundation Legacy Scholarship was launched on February 14 at King’s House, opening the opportunity for three Jamaican students to study for Master of Science degrees at the university’s business school.

The scholarship programme will run for three years and will provide three one-year scholarships to students who have successfully matriculated at the institution.

Welcoming the fully endorsed programme through his ‘I Believe’ initiative, Governor-General Sir Patrick Allen said the scholarship is a significant step in restoring sound values among young people through education.

“The I Believe initiative welcomes the launch of this Legacy scholarship, as this will open the pathway to unearth hidden potential. The initiative believes strongly in creating opportunities for Jamaicans and young people through educational programmes, which will aid in the strengthening of family life,” he said.

Earl Jarrett, general manager of the Jamaica National Building Society and chairman of its foundation, said the scholarship is a positive move towards maintaining partnerships between Jamaica and the United Kingdom, while providing opportunities for academic development among young people.

“This is tangible evidence of the outcome of the government and private sector investments in the Jamaica 50 Jubilee Independence celebration; and against the backdrop of the 2012 Olympic Games in the United Kingdom. It is with pleasure that we are here to launch the scholarship. [We are] pleased to participate in this scholarship which will further strengthen the bond between Birmingham and Jamaica,” Jarrett said.

The first prospective scholarship recipient is expected to take up the offer in October 2014 and pro-vice chancellor of the University of Birmingham Professor Edward Peck said it is hoped that at the end of the three years, the Legacy scholarship will grow in scope and reach.

“I hope this scholarship encourages more Jamaican students to come and study with us at the University of Birmingham and that the lasting legacy of the scholarship offering continues for years to come. We would really like to see the scholarship offering extended and developed beyond the currentlyagreed three years.”

The scholarship is open to Jamaicans attending a local university, or recent graduates of an accredited Jamaican university within the last two years. It will be awarded to Jamaicans residing in Jamaica based on academic merit, voluntary service and financial need.