Seprod Foundation has selected Stephany Barret as the recipient of this year’s Dr Richard Jones Scholarship.

Barret, a third-year College of Agriculture, Science, and Education (CASE) student, will receive one year’s full tuition as she pursues a degree in agricultural sciences.

The scholarship was established by Seprod Foundation to support outstanding students in agriculture while honouring Dr Jones’ profound impact on the sector.

A champion of education and innovation, Dr Jones dedicated his career to advancing agricultural knowledge, improving farming practices, and mentoring future leaders.

Seprod Foundation said that Barret has demonstrated exceptional academic performance, leadership, and commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.

“Being a recipient of the Dr Richard Jones scholarship has played a tremendous role in my academic journey and I am thankful to the Seprod Foundation for awarding me this scholarship,” said Barret.

“I am honoured to be part of Dr Richard Jones’ legacy and look forward to contributing to Jamaica’s agricultural sector in a meaningful way,” added Barrett.

The scholarship holds deep significance for Dr Jones’s family, with members expressing their gratitude for the ongoing recognition of his work.

“It is a pleasure to congratulate Ms Stephany Barret on being selected as the awardee of the Dr Richard Jones Scholarship award,” said Nicholas Jones.

“Stephany, having majored in animal science, would be particularly pleasing to Dr Jones, as livestock and the breeding and care thereof was a great passion of his. We wish her all the best as she heads towards achieving her degree in her chosen field,” added Jones.

CASE President Dr Derrick Deslandes also commended Barret and highlighted the impact of the scholarship:

“This scholarship is a testament to Dr Richard Jones’ enduring influence in the field of agriculture and education. We are deeply grateful to the Seprod Foundation for its generous sponsorship, which will provide invaluable support to one of our students.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to empowering the next generation through education and opportunity. We are proud of Stephany Barret and are confident that she will uphold the values of innovation and excellence that Dr Jones embodied,” said Deslandes.

Seprod Foundation chair Melanie Subratie reaffirmed its commitment to fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“The Seprod Foundation remains dedicated to investing in young talent and ensuring that Jamaica’s agricultural sector continues to grow and evolve. Dr Richard Jones’ contributions were invaluable, and through this scholarship we aim to inspire and support students like Stephany, who are passionate about making a difference,” said Subratie.

She pointed out that Seprod Foundation continues to champion STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) education; food security; and community development while recognising the critical role that agriculture plays in Jamaica’s economy and future.

“The foundation remains committed to providing resources and opportunities for students who are determined to drive change and progress within the sector,” added Subratie.