KINGSTON, Jamaica — Some 450 students across Clarendon and Manchester are set to benefit from Jamalco and Century Aluminum’s annual investment in education, amounting to approximately $25 million.

This ongoing initiative is now in its 19th year and continues to transform lives by providing critical scholarships, grants and support to students at all levels of their academic journey.

From early childhood to tertiary studies, this programme exemplifies a steadfast commitment to nurturing talent, fostering resilience and creating opportunities for Jamaica’s young generation to thrive.

The event featured inspiring speeches from key leaders, including Dr Mark Smith, president of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association.

Smith delivered a motivational message to the scholarship recipients, emphasising that challenges are an inevitable part of life’s journey.

Jamalco’s Managing Director Marvin Jackson (2nd right) presents a scholarship award to Jamalco mentee and student of University of the West Indies Syfannie Ellis.

“Education transforms lives,” he declared. “No matter the degree you pursue, the journey builds character. Keep pushing forward, and although doors may close, keep knocking.”

His words resonated deeply with the students, many of whom faced personal struggles. One such recipient, Jamelia McPherson, a new University of Technology student, shared her story of resilience. After losing her mother to cancer, Jamelia vowed to become a nurse, dedicating herself to caring for others.

“This support from Jamalco has strengthened my resolve to succeed,” she said, her voice filled with hope.

Jamalco’s Managing Director, Marvin Jackson, underscored the company’s long-standing dedication to education. Jackson revealed that in the past five years, Jamalco has invested approximately $100 million in educational initiatives.

“Our support is not just for individual students; it’s an investment in Jamaica’s future,” Jackson stated. “From early childhood to tertiary education, we are committed to creating opportunities and fostering growth.”

Supporting this vision, Vice President of Operations – Americas at Century Aluminum, Levi Chaffin, reaffirmed Century’s shared commitment to empowering the next generation. The Century Aluminum High Achievers Award is in its third year, “and we continue to increase our support year after year because we believe in the power of education and the importance of nurturing talent within our communities,” Chaffin said.

Member of Parliament for Clarendon South Eastern, Pearnel Charles Jr, also delivered remarks, congratulating the students on their achievements while encouraging them to continue pursuing their goals with determination and resilience.

In her overview, Corporate Communications and Public Relations Manager, Donna Marie Brooks, said Jamalco invests in the minds and dreams of Jamaica’s youth because education is the key to unlocking potential and building a brighter, more resilient nation. She used the opportunity to provide a breakdown of this year’s scholarship package.

“Six scholarships will be awarded to Jamaco mentees valued at $1.5 million each, 12 special grants totalling $2.52 million, and 53 tertiary scholarships worth $10.6 million—totalling over $14.6 million in direct support. Additionally, 10 PEP (Primary Exit Profile) students will each receive bursaries of $40,000, and approximately 350 students from Jamalco’s communities will benefit from book grants totalling $3 million. Twenty Century scholarships will be awarded, totalling $7 million,” she said.

Since its inception in 2007, Jamalco’s education assistance programme has provided consistent support to students throughout their academic journey. Recipients continue to benefit through to the end of their tertiary education, provided they maintain the programme’s performance criteria.