PARTICIPANTS in the National Youth Service (NYS) can complete their tertiary education with help from the organisation.

They can obtain financial assistance to pursue training in areas related to the growth sectors of the country.

Executive director of the NYS, Melvin Smith, said that people must have satisfactorily completed one of the NYS’ corps programmes within the last two years in order to be eligible for the grant.

He explained that the NYS offers a range of programmes which combines training in specific career skills, re-socialisation and work experience to develop positive attitudes and values among participants.

Additionally, he said the programmes provide opportunities and orientation for entry into the labour force.

Smith said that students receiving the grant must maintain a grade average of 2.0 at tertiary institutions, which should be registered by the University Council of Jamaica. He said the score will be upgraded to 3.0 for the 2015/2016 academic year to encourage excellence in students.

“It’s all about excellence and we want to challenge the youth to perform at their highest capabilities,” he added.

He pointed out that students who have been accepted for the grant need to reapply each year for assistance, so as to demonstrate that they are meeting the criteria. Application forms must reach the NYS between July 1 and August 31 each year.

Forms can be obtained at www.nysjamaica.org or at the NYS head office, 6 Collins Green Avenue in Kingston and its parish offices islandwide.