NCB Foundation, as part of its thrust to support the development of digital skills in Jamaica, has announced the expansion of its annual Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) bursary to include both units of computer science at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) level.

“By investing in computer science education we are equipping our students with advanced skills to thrive in a digital and technology-driven world,” said Sheree Martin, CEO of NCB Foundation. “As the global economy becomes increasingly reliant on technology, NCB Foundation’s focus on the development of digital skills positions Jamaican students to be at the forefront of innovation, job creation and the creation of an employable talent pool.”

Speaking at the launch of the 2024 programme, Fayval Williams, minister of education and youth, said, “I am very pleased to see organisations such as the NCB Foundation investing in the lives of our future leaders. Education is a collective effort, requiring collaboration between Government, private sector partners, educators, and students themselves. It is heartening to witness the positive impact that such partnerships can have on our educational landscape.

“I commend the NCB Foundation for your commitment to promoting access to quality education for all students. By investing in programmes that reduce financial barriers to academic advancement, we move closer to a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape.”

Started in 2003, the NCB Foundation CXC bursary initially covered the fees for students sitting examinations for principles of business and principles of accounts. In 2019, the foundation shifted its focus to digital, with a goal to support the expansion of the pool of digital producers in Jamaica. This move led to the bursary being redirected to students sitting information technology (IT) exams at the Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) level.

“As times change, so do the skills our students need,” Martin added. “We’re ensuring that our Jamaican students are not just participants, but future leaders in the digital economy. We have seen the potential of this space, and the new opportunities that are presented each day. So, our commitment is to foster a generation that is well-versed in digital literacy, and equipped with the skills needed to build and generate wealth for themselves and their families through the digital economy.”

To date, NCB Foundation has invested more than $243 million in its CXC bursary, facilitating over 113,000 examination sittings for Jamaican students in both public and private institutions. This year, the foundation’s investment of $8.7 million is expected to cover the fees for over 1,600 exam sittings for students in 43 schools across Jamaica, starting in May.