THE Seprod Foundation has added 38 young Jamaicans to its scholarship programme, moving the number of students who are part of this programme to more than 100.

The latest additions to the programme were welcomed recently at the foundation’s annual PEP Scholarship Awards ceremony.

Held under the theme ‘Realising Our Potential,’ students were commended for their outstanding academic achievements and encouraged to keep striving for excellence.

The scholarship is open to children of Seprod Group employees with a special scholarship awarded to the top performing male and female student from St Thomas.

Chairperson of the foundation Melanie Subratie reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders through education.

“Each year, the Seprod Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to support Jamaica’s youth by recognising students who demonstrate both academic excellence and perseverance. These awards are part of our ongoing dedication to empowering young minds and fostering a brighter future through education,” said Subratie.

The two outstanding students from St Thomas were presented with the Granville Marsh Scholarships, while one returning scholar from last year’s scholarship cohort received the Byron Thompson Award for Academic Achievement.

The Granville Marsh Scholarships honour the memory of the longest-serving member of the Seprod Group board, Granville Marsh, and his advocacy for education and youth development in St Thomas.

This year’s recipients are Nicardo Barnes from White Horses Primary and Infant School and Zhanae English from Providence Kinder Preparatory School.

The Byron Thompson Award for Academic Achievement was presented to Jaydonae Williams, the top-performing student from the previous PEP cohort, now entering their second year of high school. This award recognises sustained academic excellence during the student’s first year of secondary education.

Guest speaker at the awards function marketer and social impact creator Joel Nomdarkham urged the students to embrace their full potential.

“Believing in yourself is the first step toward success. No matter how big or small your dreams may seem, you have the power within you to achieve them. Believe that you have the power to make your dreams a reality,” Nomdarkham.

Echoing this sentiment Euton Cummings, human resource manager, Seprod Group, emphasised the company’s dedication to supporting students.

“At Seprod, we believe that investing in education is one of the most meaningful ways we can contribute to the development of our country and our people. These scholarships are more than just financial assistance; they represent our commitment to the success of each student.

“We are proud of every one of you and excited to see how you will continue to grow and contribute to Jamaica’s future,” said Cummings.