KINGSTON, Jamaica – The National Irrigation Commission (NIC) has awarded scholarships worth $1.1 million to 10 students who are pursuing education at the secondary and tertiary levels.

The awardees, who are children of the agency’s employees, were chosen by a selection committee comprising both internal and external members of the NIC’s management, unionised staff delegates, unions representing the workers, and an educator.

Speaking at the presentation of the scholarships, at the NIC Operations Centre, in Spanish Town, St Catherine, on Thursday, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Floyd Green, said the gesture is a “big investment” for the future of the island.

“The scholarship programme is so important, because it says to our workers ‘we regard you, we appreciate you, and we are willing to participate in what you value’, which is quality education for your children,” the minister said.

“When we have initiatives of this nature, where our employees truly feel appreciated, when they can see a pathway for the betterment of their families, they will perform at their optimum,” Green added.

He urged the students to always stick to their dreams, and to persevere, even when the odds are against them.

“Continue to push forward, and take up the mission of transforming agriculture,” Green said.

Meanwhile, Board member of the agency, Steve Whyte, said the scholarship programme exemplifies the commitment of the NIC to employees, the communities in which it operates, and is a “clear reflection of the belief that we have in the power of education, an engine for personal growth, community development and national progress.”

For Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NIC, Rohan Stewart, the initiative is about building future leaders and reaffirming their commitment to empower them.

“Through our scholarship programme, we are ensuring that the children of our employees have the tools to excel,” he said.

Meanwhile, awardee, Kiana Levy, said the support for their education is “truly appreciated.”

Since 1998, the programme has been assisting children of staff members and is part of the NIC’s outreach activities.