JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation announced on Thursday that applications are now open for the 2019/2020 season of its scholarship programme in which some $8 million is up for grabs.

The primary beneficiaries are expected to be tertiary students who either intend to begin studies in the upcoming academic year, or are currently enrolled in any degree programme at local universities with the exception of: medical sciences, dentistry, architecture, engineering and law. Scholarships will cover the cost of tuition, books and/or other school-related expenses.

Students of primary and secondary schools are also eligible.

The foundation said it will make awards to individuals who are: financially challenged, demonstrate satisfactory academic performance and are well-rounded — as evidenced by their involvement in extra-curricular activities or voluntary work in their schools/communities.

“Although the scholarship is aimed at bridging the financial gap for many ordinary Jamaicans who would otherwise be challenged to afford university, it is more than providing financing,” said JMMB Joan Duncan Foundation Chairman Patricia Sutherland, who explained the objective of the scholarship programme to the Jamaica Observer.

“The programme is aimed at positively impacting lives and transforming individuals so that they can unearth their greatness, and help others to see the greatness in themselves. We are proud that, over the years, we have been able to assist hundreds of individuals and cause a ripple effect in their lives. We have scholarship recipients who are the first in their families to graduate from university, thereby giving hope to their siblings that challenges are surmountable. We have also seen students who were on the verge of becoming high school drop-outs, because of a lack of funding, go on to receive the prestigious UWI open scholarship and qualify for other international scholarships to pursue further studies,” she said.

The foundation said further that it takes a holistic approach to the award process, whereby all scholarship recipients are exposed to transformational training led by a trained facilitator. The training workshop explores self-awareness, reflection paradigm-shifting;,critical thinking, and visioning, among other areas.

“Through the workshop, the foundation is able to share tools with the recipients so that they can be empowered to achieve their dreams; enabling them to live more powerful lives and unlock their true potential,” Sutherland added.

To apply for the foundation’s scholarship programme,individuals must complete the online application form, which can be accessed on its website at www.joanduncanfoundation.org/scholarships-and-educational-grants. The application period ends on May 31, 2019.

The foundation said the scholarship programme is part of the JMMB Group’s commitment to the development of youth, through education, as a vehicle for transformation and advancement.

As examples, it pointed to the agreement the group signed with Mona School of Business & Management earlier this month to offer postgraduate loans to students; the increase in the amount allocated to its scholarship programme annually; and the establishment of endowments at The University of the West Indies and the University of Technology, Jamaica.